Training for the West Hartford Community Emergency Response Team begins on Oct. 11.

Participants in CERT training gain knowledge in emergency skills, including disaster preparedness, first aid, disaster psychology, animal sheltering, fire safety, and terrorism awareness. Courtesy photo

Submitted

The West Hartford Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is looking for new volunteers to join its ranks this fall. The next Basic Training Class kicks off on Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025, and will run for six consecutive weekends.

The 20-hour course is designed to equip residents with essential emergency skills, including disaster preparedness, first aid, disaster psychology, animal sheltering, fire safety, and terrorism awareness. Participants will learn directly from public safety professionals.

Participants in CERT training gain knowledge in emergency skills, including disaster preparedness, first aid, disaster psychology, animal sheltering, fire safety, and terrorism awareness. Courtesy photo

Graduates receive a CERT backpack with emergency equipment and a certificate of completion from the Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security.

“CERT volunteers are neighbors helping neighbors. They play a vital role in making West Hartford more resilient in the face of emergencies and large-scale events,” said Fire Chief Greg Priest, who directs the program.

Participants in CERT training gain knowledge in emergency skills, including disaster preparedness, first aid, disaster psychology, animal sheltering, fire safety, and terrorism awareness. Courtesy photo

Since its creation, more than 330 residents participated in the training. Last year alone, volunteers contributed over 2,000 hours of service – assisting at vaccination clinics, parades, Celebrate! West Hartford, mask distributions, and the Food Pantry.

Who Can Join

• Must be 18 years or older
• Must live, work, or attend school in West Hartford
• No minimum activity requirements — volunteers serve when available and as interested

Limited Enrollment

The fall training is limited to the first 30 residents who sign up.

Apply now: CERT Team Application

For more information, visit the CERT Team Webpage, email [email protected], or call 860-561-8310.

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