Cleveland Heights Launches New CERT
Cleveland Heights has added a valuable new resource for emergency preparedness with the completion of training for its first Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). Nineteen volunteers completed the eight-week, 18-hour training program.
“Cleveland Heights, like most cities, is staffed and equipped to handle their average daily emergency load,” assured Fire Chief Kevin Mohr. “If something really bad happens, we have ready access to backup from neighboring cities. But a large-scale emergency may create the need to employ additional resources. That is where a properly trained CERT team is of great value.”
CERT volunteers can provide first aid and other assistance—anything to help bring order to a chaotic situation. Even simple tasks, such as taking names of people as they are evacuated from a disaster scene, can free up professional responders for other jobs.
The Cleveland Heights CERT is part of a nationwide network of volunteers trained to assist in emergencies. More than 1,100 communities have CERTs, including about 30 in the Cleveland area. Part of the program’s mission is to teach volunteers to help their neighbors without putting themselves at risk.
“Safety of our volunteers is the highest priority,” said Chief Mohr. “If someone rushes into a disaster area and is injured, then we have just added another victim needing to be rescued. That’s why the first job for anyone arriving at the site of an emergency is to size up the situation and determine what can be done safely. Just as with other emergency responders, CERT members are always acting as part of a team.”
No specific qualifications are required to be a CERT member. Volunteers must submit to a background check and complete the training program. Cleveland Heights team members bring a diverse collection of their own skills to the mix. Everyone on the team has valuable knowledge and skills to contribute.
CERT volunteers will not just be on standby waiting for a major disaster. Several team members have already helped out with flu vaccination clinics. Other volunteer opportunities come up frequently. Members have access to additional training such as disaster simulations or Red Cross first aid classes. If a large-scale emergency would occur elsewhere in the region, members of various CERTs might team up to provide relief.
Exactly what role the CERT will play in the community is likely to evolve as team members gain more experience and training, and as the city’s safety forces explore ways to take advantage of the team’s presence. “Every CERT group develops its own personality,” said CERT Instructor Karen Seidman.
The next class for new trainees is expected to begin sometime in early 2010. Anyone wishing to find out more about becoming part of the CERT should call the Community Relations office at 216-291-2323.
Cliff Lewis is a member of the Cleveland Heights CERT.