Community Emergency Response Team sets next class

MURPHY (August 25, 2022) Applications are now being accepted for the upcoming Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) classes which start next month. The weekly classes begin on Wednesday, Sept. 14 and conclude on Wednesday, Nov. 9, conducted every Wednesday evening by disaster preparedness professionals with the Murphy Fire Department. 

“Emergencies are part of our community’s life,” says Murphy Fire Marshal Perry Elliott. “CERT members help people get through unforeseen incidents, some of which can be very hazardous. We’re seeking people who are interested in learning how to respond to these emergencies in an appropriate way.”   

A realistic disaster drill will occur on the final day of class, allowing participants to put their newly developed skills into practice. 

Applications for enrollment will be accepted between now and 5 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 4. These can be submitted online at http://www.murphytx.org/289/CERT-APPLICATION or through the Murphy Fire Department page of www.murphytx.org. Classes are held from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in the Murphy Fire Station training room, 206 North Murphy Road. 

“Emergency professionals calculate that residents can sometimes be required to be self-sufficient for up to 72 hours after an emergency, with only the resources on hand. CERT volunteers help bridge that potential three-day gap between the incident and when additional help arrives,” said Elliott.

The program includes training in disaster preparedness, identifying and dealing with hazards that may have an impact on affected areas. Participants learn basic disaster preparedness skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations.

Using the training learned in the classroom and during exercises, CERT members can assist others in their neighborhood or workplace following events when first responders are not immediately available. CERT members are also utilized for non-emergency activities such as crowd and traffic control, freeing up first responders for true emergencies. 

“This kind of training is unique, hands-on, intensive and highly-focused,” said Elliott. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, residents of Murphy and pass a background check.

More information can be obtained from the Fire Department page at www.murphytx.org or by calling Murphy Fire Rescue at (972) 468-4300 or by sending an e-mail to cert@murphytx.org.