On December 12, 2023, the city celebrated the graduation of its first Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). The CERT program, which provides training to community members to respond to emergencies and disasters, has been a long-time goal for the city.
The graduation ceremony took place at the local community center, where the newly certified CERT members were recognized for their dedication and commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of their fellow residents. Mayor John Smith, who has been a strong advocate for the CERT program, commended the graduates for their hard work and emphasized the importance of their role in emergency response.
"We are extremely proud of our first CERT team and their accomplishments," Mayor Smith said. "Their training and skills will be invaluable in times of crisis, and they will make a significant difference in our community's ability to respond effectively to emergencies."
The CERT training program, which lasted for several months, covered various aspects of emergency preparedness and response, including disaster medical operations, fire safety, light search and rescue, and team organization. The participants underwent both classroom instruction and hands-on exercises to ensure they were well-prepared for any emergency situation.
One of the CERT graduates, Sarah Thompson, expressed her gratitude for the training she received and the opportunity to serve her community. "The CERT program has given me the confidence and skills to help others in times of need," Thompson said. "I feel honored to be part of this team and contribute to the safety and well-being of our city."
The CERT program is a collaboration between the city's emergency management department and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). It aims to empower community members to take an active role in emergency response, thus enhancing the overall resilience of the city.
The graduation ceremony was attended by various city officials, emergency management personnel, and community members. The event served as a testament to the city's commitment to preparedness and the dedication of its residents to ensuring the safety of their community.
As the city celebrates the graduation of its first CERT team, plans are already underway to expand the program and recruit more community members to join future training sessions. The city recognizes the importance of a well-trained and equipped citizenry in times of crisis and is committed to fostering a culture of preparedness.
With the successful graduation of its first CERT team, the city is now better prepared to handle emergencies and disasters. The newly certified members are ready to put their training into action and make a positive impact in their community.
As Mayor Smith stated, "Our CERT team is a true asset to our city. They are the first line of defense in emergency situations, and their dedication and training will undoubtedly save lives. We are proud to have them as part of our community."
The graduation of the city's first CERT team marks an important milestone in the city's preparedness efforts. It serves as a reminder of the importance of community involvement and collaboration in building a resilient and safe city.
For additional details, please follow this link: https://www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Our-City/News-Media/City-celebrates-graduation-of-first-CERT-team
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