Community Emergency Response Teams

Be the First to Help...
Our world has changed. In South Dakota we know the kind of damage a tornado can cause and the deadly effects of thunderstorms. We know fires can take lives. Now we know others might want to do us harm. In every instance, first responders need to act fast in an orderly fashion to prevent chaos and save lives. Today, there is a way for you to be there first, for you to help. Sioux Falls Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) are forming and you can volunteer.

CERT training will prepare more than 1000 Sioux Falls volunteers to be prepared to respond and cope with the aftermath of a disaster. Community Emergency Response Teams are about readiness, people helping people, rescuer safety, and doing the greatest good for the greatest number. CERT is a positive and realistic approach to emergency disaster situations.

Volunteers (age 18 and older) are being recruited and trained as neighborhood teams that, in essence, will become auxiliary responders. In these situations, CERT members may initially be acting on their own, and their actions can make a difference. These groups will provide immediate assistance to victims in their area, organize spontaneous volunteers, and collect disaster intelligence to assist professional responders.

CERT is an ongoing program – class sessions are 3 hours of training each – 18 total hours – anyone 18 years and older can be a CERT Team Member.

• Teams are placed by Fire Station response area where they live.
• No cost to participants.
• Drills/continued training.
• Basic equipment and weather radio provided.
• Program can be held in your facility.

Curriculum includes:

• Disaster Preparedness
• Disaster Fire Suppression
• Disaster Medical
• Light Search and Rescue
• Disaster Psychology
• Organization/Incident Command Structure

For more information, or to sign up to be a CERT member; please contact:
Shawn Greer
CERT Coordinator
Sioux Falls Fire Rescue
367-8272