The safest and most effective response to an emergency or disaster involves individuals working as a team, which is what volunteers with the Community Emergency Response Team of Catoosa County will be teaching this month during two consecutive Saturday classes.
“In an event like last week, CERT training means being able to aid your neighbor without becoming a victim yourself,” said CERT instructor Larry Miller Then, when the first responder arrives, being able to assist and support them because we understand what they do.”
Last week’s deadly tornadoes and storms are clear examples of the importance of being prepared and having specific skills to protect yourself and your family, as well as your neighbors.
GET INVOLVEDWhat: A two-part Community Emergency Response Team disaster preparedness and community response classes.When: Classes run from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. on consecutive Saturdays, May 14 and May 21.Where: Catoosa County Fire Department’s Station 1 in Ringgold.Cost: Free.Who can attend: Any Catoosa resident who will be 18 before May 22.Extras: Everyone who successfully completes the class will be issued a back pack that includes basic equipment that includes helmet, vest, gloves,flashlight and other essential gear provided by a Georgia Emergency Management Agency grant.To register, email catoosacert@att.net or call Larry Miller at (706) 861-3280 or (423) 313-5053.BE A FIRST RESPONDERFollowing a major disaster, first responders who provide fire and medical services will not be able to meet the demand for these services. Factors as number of victims, communication failures, and road blockages will prevent people from accessing emergency services they have come to expect at a moment’s notice through 911. People will have to rely on each other for help in order to meet their immediate life saving and life sustaining needs.If we can predict that emergency services will not meet immediate needs following a major disaster, especially if there is no warning as in an earthquake, and people will spontaneously volunteer, what can government do to prepare citizens for this eventuality?First, present citizens the facts about what to expect following a major disaster in terms of immediate services. Second, give the message about their responsibility for mitigation and preparedness. Third, train them in needed life saving skills with emphasis on decision making skills, rescuer safety, and doing the greatest good for the greatest number. Fourth, organize teams so that they are an extension of first responder services offering immediate help to victims until professional services arrive.- Source: FEMA
“Our purpose is to first train citizens to care for themselves and help their neighbors in the event of a disaster,” said Larry Miller, one of the instructors. “The natural tendency is to help your neighbor, even if you don’t talk to them on a daily basis. This class teaches you how to do it safely. The second class focuses on learning how to serve locally until the professionals can arrive.”