Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)

Training

The Rowlett Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is a volunteer group of citizens trained to be self-sufficient for up to 72 hours after a large-scale disaster or emergency. Volunteers (135 members) receive training based on the FEMA curriculum in topics such as:

  • Light search and rescue
  • Medical operations
  • Triage
  • Fire suppression
  • Utility control

Awards and Honors

  • 2004 FEMA Region XI Best Practice Award
  • 2007 Governor's Volunteer Service Award, Public/Private Partnership, Capacity Building
  • 2008 McKinney CERT Olympics, Best Performance by an Incident Commander, 10 medals
  • 2009 National Citizen Corps Achievement Award, Honorable Mention, Volunteer Integration
  • 2010 Harris County CERT Rodeo, Second Place Overall

CERT Excellence

The City of Rowlett has set the pace for communities around Texas as one of the first cities to implement the federal government’s initiative for Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT). The program has trained more than 300 CERT volunteers and has been recognized by the Federal Emergency Management Agency for its excellence and program management. 

How CERT Works

During a natural or man-made disaster, teams assist emergency response teams in damage assessment, accounting for residents and securing quick, accessible routes into their neighborhoods. CERT teams also support public safety professions by searching for missing persons, assisting at public events and other support functions that enhance Emergency Management. For additional information on CERT, use this link.

Future Classes

Rowlett is actively recruiting residents to be trained in the CERT program that includes Disaster Medical Operations, Light Search and Rescue, and Fire Suppression.  No training or prior experience is required. However, applicants must pass a background check to be accepted.  The next class will be held on August 7th and 14th.  Both days are required.  A course fee of $20 covers class administrative expenses.  For more information or to register for class, see our website at RowlettCERT.com.

Video:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08Kwgr3tkf4