Description:

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program is a nationally supported, locally implemented initiative that teaches people how to better prepare themselves for hazards that may affect their communities. CERT trains in basic disaster response skills such as team organization, disaster medical operations, fire safety, and light search and rescue. Local CERT programs train and organize teams of volunteers to assist their families, neighbors, co-workers, and other community members during emergencies when professional responders may not be immediately available to aid.

Before, during, and after disasters, CERT volunteer teams perform basic response activities, including checking in on neighbors, distributing information to the public, supporting emergency operations centers, and helping to manage traffic and crowds. The ability for CERT volunteers to perform these activities frees up professional responders to focus their efforts on more complex, essential, and critical tasks. CERT volunteers also support their communities by organizing, promoting, and participating in emergency preparedness events, activities, and projects.

In Windsor Locks, our CERT members have opened and run shelter operations, managed COVID test sites, distributed emergency food and water to home-bound residents during natural disasters, stood-by and protected the public at downed power lines until the hazard could be removed, and provided traffic control during public events such as the Lions Club Road Race and the Fire Department Carnival.  In addition to providing support during times of need, CERT members provide community outreach and education to help create a resilient community of informed and prepared residents.

All CERT members must complete a 20-hour CERT Basic Training Course and pass a final examination before they can participate in CERTY activities.  Additional training and certifications in traffic management and CPR are also available.

CERT MISSION STATEMENT :

The Windsor Locks CERT Team, A group of trained community volunteers assigned to the Emergency Management Department, will provide assistance to the Windsor Locks Police, Fire, Ambulance, Public Works, and other Town Departments during Disasters/Emergencies whenever called upon to do so. We will provide assistance, training and relief to our fellow townspeople during such times, and will help them to prepare for and respond to such emergencies.