West Hartford Office of Emergency Management completed the most recent CERT training, with 30 people graduating from the program.

The most recent CERT training included a session on CPR. Photo credit: Robert McCue

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On Saturday, Nov. 18, 2023, 30 residents of West Hartford and surrounding communities completed the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Basic Training Course.

The course is sponsored by the West Hartford Office of Emergency Management that oversees the program. This program consists of over 20 hours of training in Disaster Preparedness, CERT Organization, Light Search and Rescue, Disaster Psychology, Terrorism, Fire Safety, Medical Operations, and Sheltering Operations.  Additionally, each member became certified in the American Heart Association Heart Saver program. 

Use of fire extinguishers is part of the CERT training, Photo credit: Robert McCue

Participants also took part in a practical exercise in which they practiced using an extinguisher on an actual fire, search and rescue techniques, and emergency medical treatment. 

Local CERT programs train residents to be better prepared to assist their families, neighbors, co-workers, and other community members during emergencies when professional responders may not be immediately available to assist. They also assist during town-wide events such as Celebrate! West Hartford, Memorial Day Parade, and vaccination clinics.

Since the inception of West Hartford’s team in the spring of 2021, over 240 residents have taken part in the training and have donated over 5,000 hours of service to the community. The group meets monthly at the Elmwood Community Center.

The training is free and open to anyone 18 years of age or older. All people taking part in the program receive a CERT backpack filled with preparedness and first aid equipment. The next training class will be in the early spring.  

For more information regarding the CERT program or to sign up for the spring class, please visit the following link: West Hartford CERT Team  or please send in email to [email protected].

The most recent CERT training included a session on CPR. Photo credit: Robert McCue

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