West Hartford’s Office of Emergency Management and Community Emergency Response Team participated in the training at Conard High School.

Jon Basso of the American Red Cross leads a shelter training program for West Hartford’s Office of Emergency Management and CERT at Conard High School. Courtesy photo

Submitted

On Saturday, Aug. 10, 2024, the American Red Cross conducted an emergency shelter training session for the Office of Emergency Management and West Hartford Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) at Conard High School. Thirty-eight CERT members participated in the training.

In the event of a large-scale natural or man-made disaster, Conard High School is one of four regional shelters that would be activated. The shelter would be managed by the American Red Cross, with support from the town’s Office of Emergency Management, West Hartford CERT, and other town departments.

The American Red Cross held a training program in shelter management at Conard High School for West Hartford’s Office of Emergency Management and CERT. Courtesy photo

This collaboration combines the American Red Cross’ extensive disaster response resources and expertise with the town’s logistical support and volunteer team. The last time the Town operated a shelter at Conard High School was in October 2011, following the unprecedented October snowstorm, which left 80% of the town without power. That shelter remained open for five days, and over 200 residents took advantage of it.

During a disaster, displaced residents may be unable to find alternative shelter during or shortly after an event. This resource is important so displaced residents have a safe place to stay and with provided assistance to recover more quickly.

The American Red Cross held a training program in shelter management at Conard High School for West Hartford’s Office of Emergency Management and CERT. Courtesy photo

Jon Basso, senior director of Disaster Cycle Services for the American Red Cross, led the training, supported by five additional volunteers from the ARC Disaster Action Team. The training included both classroom instruction and hands-on practice. Participants learned how to set up a reception center for incoming residents, arrange and dismantle cots in the dormitory area, and manage food services. During an emergency shelter operation, CERT members will assist Red Cross volunteers in setting up the shelter, registering individuals, providing food, and monitoring the shelter.  This training is vital in preparing the team to assist during an emergency.

The West Hartford CERT is recruiting new members for its upcoming training class, which begins Saturday, Oct. 12. To learn more about joining and register for free training, visit the West Hartford CERT website.

For information about volunteering with the American Red Cross Disaster Action Team, visit American Red Cross Volunteering.

For more details on the Town’s Emergency Shelter Plan, contact the Office of Emergency Management at 860-561-8310 or email [email protected].

The American Red Cross held a training program in shelter management at Conard High School for West Hartford’s Office of Emergency Management and CERT. Courtesy photo

The American Red Cross held a training program in shelter management at Conard High School for West Hartford’s Office of Emergency Management and CERT. Courtesy photo

The American Red Cross held a training program in shelter management at Conard High School for West Hartford’s Office of Emergency Management and CERT. Courtesy photo

The American Red Cross held a training program in shelter management at Conard High School for West Hartford’s Office of Emergency Management and CERT. Courtesy photo

The American Red Cross held a training program in shelter management at Conard High School for West Hartford’s Office of Emergency Management and CERT. Courtesy photo

The American Red Cross held a training program in shelter management at Conard High School for West Hartford’s Office of Emergency Management and CERT. Courtesy photo

The American Red Cross held a training program in shelter management at Conard High School for West Hartford’s Office of Emergency Management and CERT. Courtesy photo

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