Thread by @MissAshes92

Finally got to watch an insightful webinar on the CERT work @leiniemom has worked on. A THREAD - on some very good CERT ideas for up and coming teams. #EMGTwitter #CommunityIsKey #CERT

@NBCERT

A good way to recruit vols or just members of the community into CERT training is to tell them about how the skills they learn are "life long." This means that despite choosing not to be a member of a team, they will have the skills for life in the event that it is needed.

After a team is established, figuring out a structure that works good for your team and jurisdiction is very important! Some do that based on service/skill while others may use only ICS branch. A mix of both is not out of the question.

This team does event (special events/shelter/DA), Medical (FA), IMT (EOC, IAP/EAP. Comms), SAR, Training, and Logistics. I find this effective sounding! For my team, I was going to do Tactical, Hospitality, and Management.

After you determine what skills CERTers need to have and how your team will be structured, you have to figure out a training plan and evaluation process! This team used the new FEMA EOC skillsets for some of their EOC requirements. Thought that was neat!

For my team, I am working on "task books.". Basically, just like for IMT, my CERTers will need to complete a skill set to be "certified" for a specialty. I will sign off on skills they pass. This also leave a good trail of training that can "vet" vols.

I think it is really cool that this team does EAPs and works local city events. We have already had CERTers help us out at events, and I think our goal is to have them that involved as well.

"TO ENGAGE IS TO RETAIN!"

The final idea that I ABSOLUTELY LOVED was the idea of hosting a CERT Basic Course for ISD teachers only. What a great way to introduce an ISD to CERT, but also provide valuable skills to teachers. You can also use this to bring in Stop The Bleed as additional training.

My favorite thing about CERT is that you really can make the team what you want it to be once you do the required training. Every CERT team should be unique to the jurisdiction's needs. You can also get creative, and that is where we can really make a dent in community prep!