I am proud to bring a new, community-based initiative to Farmingdale, North Massapequa, Levittown and Plainview/Old Bethpage aimed at making Nassau a safer place to live - the Nassau County Community Based Emergency Response Team (CERT). When an emergency or disaster occurs, Nassau County CERT members will be trained to give critical support to responders and provide immediate assistance in a coordinated manner. In addition, CERT members may assist with emergency preparedness projects. CERT is intended to improve the overall safety of participating communities.

CERT is a team of individuals who receive special training that enhances their ability to recognize, prepare for, respond to and recover from a major emergency or disaster. Previous emergency experience is not required. Once the training is complete there will be a designated local community CERT coordinator to keep members informed and organized.

CERT training is a free training that includes basic first aid, emergency preparedness, community and family safety, light search and rescue, disaster psychology, terrorism issues, and CERT procedures. Upon completion of CERT training you will receive a certificate and become a member of your community CERT. You will be able to assist emergency response teams during emergencies and disasters, as well as know exactly what to do while help is on the way. Continued supplemental training will be offered in the future to maintain your skills and awareness of CERT procedures.

Beginning August 27th and running through October 29, Nassau County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) will be conducting free training for residents interested in becoming a member of CERT. Training will take place at the South Farmingdale Fire Department located at 819 Main Street, Farmingdale. There are 8 classes each lasting 3 hours. Classes begin 7 p.m. and end at 10 p.m. Below is an outline of dates and subjects to be covered.

Class 1 Aug. 27 Intro to CERT, CERT Organization, Intro to ICS

Class 2 Sept 3 Disaster Medical Operations I & II

Class 3 Sept 10 Light Search & Rescue

Class 4 Sept 17 Terrorism, Disaster Psychology, Assisting the Disabled

Class 5 Sept 24 Fire Suppression, Disaster Table Top Exercise

Class 6 Oct 1 Sheltering Introduction & Table Top

Class 7 Oct 22 Disaster Triage

Class 8 Oct 29 Outreach & Education, Radio Operation, and Graduation

Through coordinated efforts, collaboration and education, Nassau will be a stronger, more resilient county ready to better handle emergency situations. Be educated, prepared, and safe. Support CERT!

To Signup please visit: www.nassaucountyny.gov/agencies/OEM/CC/CERT/signup.html

For Questions, please contact Nassau County Office of Emergency Management at: 573-0648