Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
Neighbors Helping Neighbors
The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program empowers residents to become an important part of Sussex County’s emergency preparedness and resilience. Through nationally recognized training developed by FEMA, CERT volunteers learn practical skills that enable them to safely assist themselves, their families, neighbors, and communities before, during, and after disasters.
During large-scale emergencies, first responders may not be able to reach every neighborhood immediately. CERT members are trained to remain calm, take safe and appropriate action, provide immediate assistance when possible, and support emergency responders until additional resources arrive. Their knowledge and preparedness help strengthen the entire community while improving the safety of those around them.
Whether responding to a severe storm, hurricane, tornado, flooding, extended power outage, or other emergency, CERT volunteers are prepared to make a difference when it matters most.
What You’ll Learn
The CERT Basic Training course provides hands-on instruction in disaster preparedness and emergency response, including:
- Disaster preparedness and emergency planning
- Fire safety and utility control
- Disaster medical operations
- Light search and rescue
- Team organization and incident management
- Disaster psychology
- Situational awareness and personal safety
- Terrorism and community preparedness
- Hands-on disaster response exercises
No previous emergency services experience is required.
Beyond the Classroom
Graduates of the CERT program become part of a dedicated team of community volunteers committed to strengthening Sussex County’s preparedness. Members have opportunities to:
- Participate in emergency exercises and disaster simulations
- Assist during planned community events
- Support emergency preparedness outreach
- Continue advanced training opportunities
- Work alongside public safety professionals during approved missions
- Help educate neighbors and promote community resilience
CERT volunteers become trusted partners of Sussex County Emergency Management and an important resource during emergencies.
Who Can Join?
CERT is 100% volunteer, free, and open to individuals who want to serve their community and become better prepared for emergencies.
Whether you’re a student, retiree, business owner, teacher, healthcare professional, or simply someone looking to make a difference, CERT provides valuable skills that can benefit you, your family, and your community.
No emergency services background is necessary—just a willingness to learn and serve.