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For current information about the CERT program please visit https://www.ci.oswego.or.us/fire/cert.
By Rick Eilers
Sept. 29, 2011
There are four Palisades neighbors taking CERT training, (left to right) Bruce Goldman, Gail Parrick (PNA Chair), Rick Eilers (Chair of the Emergency Preparedness committee) and Gregory Monahan. In cases of emergency, professional first responders (Fire Department, Police Department) are best trained to handle the emergency. In cases of catastrophic disaster (earthquake, flood) you and your neighbors may be on your own for a period of time due to the size and extent of the area affected, lost communications and un-passable roads. CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) training is designed to help you help yourself, your family and your neighbors in the event of such disasters.
The training covers basic skills that are important to know in a disaster when emergency services are not available. With training and practice and by working as a team, you will be able to “do the greatest good for the greatest number of victims, while protecting yourself from becoming a victim”.
CERT training teaches you what to have on hand in case of emergency, fire safety, emergency medical procedures, and search and rescue operations. Classes are taught by trained emergency personnel, including firefighters and Emergency Medical Services personnel. The program has 20 hours of training and hands-on practice.
Several neighbors have already completed the training. Please call Karen Carnahan with the Lake Oswego Fire Department at 503.635.0275 if you are interested in signing up for the next session.
