Imagine a catastrophic disaster here on the shore not unlike recent disasters we have seen. In such an emergency, the need for emergency assistance could quickly reach far beyond that of available resources. Community assistance would be vital in such situations, and Worcester County is offering Community Emergency Response Training (CERT) to all interest residents.

“If there were to be a catastrophic event here on the shore, such as the flooding, tsunamis and other natural catastrophes seen on the news recently, the need for trained volunteers would be tremendous,” said Cyndy Howell, Worcester County Volunteer Services Manager. “This training equips private citizens to offer critically needed help at times when the demand for assistance is greater than the number of available emergency service personnel.”

CERT equips everyday citizens with the skills and knowledge to help their families as well as others in the midst of both natural and man-made disasters.  CERT was developed for the express purpose of extend helpings hands to those in crisis during disaster situations thru assistance by trained volunteers.

CERT is free to all interested participants. Program costs are paid for through the cooperative efforts of Worcester County Emergency Services, Red Cross and Worcester County Volunteer Services. The first class of this six-week certification course will be held on February 8^th from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department. Interested residents are encouraged to register early. The registration deadline is February 2.

For more information or to register for CERT, contact the Red Cross at 410-749-5331.