Disaster Preparedness Training

Wilton CERT will conduct basic training for citizens interested in learning about Disaster Preparedness. In this six-class course taught over two weeks (Jan. 20-Feb. 10), the training will cover a variety of emergency skills, such as how to prepare for when a disaster strikes, fire safety (including how to extinguish small fires and how to evacuate a smoke filled building), basic first aid, disaster psychology, hazardous materials, terrorism awareness, and other functions related to CERT operations such as radio communications and traffic control. The training involves classroom and field practical exercises.

CERT Instructors certified by the Connecticut Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, along with other instructors from the Police Department, Fire Department and Emergency Medical Service will assist in the training. At the conclusion of the course, disaster preparedness backpack kits will be provided free to all participants.

Upon successful completion of the course, graduates are eligible for and encouraged to join the Wilton CERT organization.  As part of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Wilton CERT regularly provides assistance to the town and its first responders at large emergency incidents and public events.  Wilton CERT has performed a broad range of deployment activities, including traffic and crowd control duties, search and rescue for missing persons, staffing Wilton’s emergency shelter and distributing emergency food and water as and when required.

Class dates are Jan. 20, 25, and 27; and Feb. 3, 8 and 10. The class is limited to 35 people, so interested persons should register as soon as possible.  Visit the Wilton CERT website for information and to register online. Course participants must be 16 years or older; anyone wishing to join CERT must be at least 18. There is no cost for this training.