Community Emergency Response Team course aims to enhance disaster readiness for Hawaiʻi County residents

The County of Hawaiʻi invites residents to train in emergency preparedness and response through a free Community Emergency Response Team training.

This is an in-depth emergency response training course, fully funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Department of Homeland Security, that empowers individuals and communities with the knowledge needed to respond properly in an emergency or disaster.

The comprehensive course will cover elements of triage and first aid, search and rescue, and fire suppression and safety.

“These classes give the people of Hawaiʻi Island skills needed to protect themselves and their community during a disaster,” said Mayor Kimo Alameda. “Participants will receive hands-on training in the fundamentals of disaster response, which improves community resilience and helps save lives.”

Under the supervision of Civil Defense, Community Emergency Response Team members participate in community preparedness awareness and outreach events, assist in conducting residential damage assessments, report on adverse weather conditions in their community, and are assigned to response operations when disaster strikes.

“Whether they act on their own during a disaster or join a volunteer Community Emergency Response Team in their community, Community Emergency Response Team training is one of the building blocks for a safer Hawaiʻi Island,” said Talmadge Magno, Hawaiʻi County Civil Defense Administrator. “We know getting Community Emergency Response Team-certified through these classes is a big commitment, but anyone who gains these skills is ready to help meet the challenges our communities face.”

Although training is provided to the public free of charge, it is offered on a first-come, first-served basis, as seating is limited. Applications must be received by Friday, Oct. 10, for the in-person classes.

In-person training will be from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, and Sunday, Nov. 2, at the Keaʻau Community Center. After completing the required registration, applicants will receive a link to access the online portion of the course, which must be completed by Oct. 17.

This training is supported by Hawai‘i County Civil Defense Agency, which oversees the local Community Emergency Response Team program.  

For more information on Community Emergency Response Team training, visit the Civil Defense website or contact CERT@hawaiicounty.gov.