As of August 20th, 2008, 240 citizens have been trained in the CERT program.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS and answers
What is involved in the CERT Training
Click here for details on the classes
Do I need to be 18?
No, but you do need to have parental or guardian approval.
Remember that the things one can see in a real disaster are rated at least PG-13
How many classes can I miss?
1 excused absence is acceptable. More than that and it is better to take a class that fits your schedule.
What happens if I miss a class?
A missed class can be made up during the next series of classes.
Where are classes held?
Classes can be held at your group's location - or we have facilities at
the American Red Cross, Kent County Sheriff Department, and the Grand Rapids Fire Department.
What will be the cost to me?
At this time there is no cost to the participants, courtesy of grants from the Department of Homeland Security!
Do I have to join some group and continue to participate all the time?
YES, (but not really) The purpose of the training is to educate everyone in preparedness. We would strongly encourage continued participation in CERT and the Red Cross. There is also the opportunity to participate on a national level with FEMA.
How many hours total does the program take?
Currently 32 hours including ARC CPR and 1st Aid.
Do I have to take classes in order?
It is highly recommended that you take the classes as they are offered so you can participate in the final exercise.
Can I be a victim?
We encourage our graduates to come back and play as victims or safeties. See our opportunities page.
Do I get a certificate?
Yes! CERT is a nationally recognized program and is part of Michigan's Emergency Management as well as FEMA.
What do I get?
As well as the preparedness and response training, you get a bag full of equipment, a Red Cross first aid kit, and certification in Red Cross First Aid / CPR with AED.
What's in the green bag?
Lots of good stuff to help you respond to disasters. Complete the training and find out!
Why green?
So we are not confused with the red, white and blue of the first responders.
Is there any liability to me?
Yes, you will sign a liability waiver releasing the organizations and individuals involved in the training. However, as long as you operate within the scope of your training you are covered under the "Good Samaritian Act" in a disaster situation.
Other Question or Comments? Email kccert@gmail.com
What is involved in the CERT Training
Click here for details on the classes
Do I need to be 18?
No, but you do need to have parental or guardian approval.
Remember that the things one can see in a real disaster are rated at least PG-13
How many classes can I miss?
1 excused absence is acceptable. More than that and it is better to take a class that fits your schedule.
What happens if I miss a class?
A missed class can be made up during the next series of classes.
Where are classes held?
Classes can be held at your group's location - or we have facilities at
the American Red Cross, Kent County Sheriff Department, and the Grand Rapids Fire Department.
What will be the cost to me?
At this time there is no cost to the participants, courtesy of grants from the Department of Homeland Security!
Do I have to join some group and continue to participate all the time?
YES, (but not really) The purpose of the training is to educate everyone in preparedness. We would strongly encourage continued participation in CERT and the Red Cross. There is also the opportunity to participate on a national level with FEMA.
How many hours total does the program take?
Currently 32 hours including ARC CPR and 1st Aid.
Do I have to take classes in order?
It is highly recommended that you take the classes as they are offered so you can participate in the final exercise.
Can I be a victim?
We encourage our graduates to come back and play as victims or safeties. See our opportunities page.
Do I get a certificate?
Yes! CERT is a nationally recognized program and is part of Michigan's Emergency Management as well as FEMA.
What do I get?
As well as the preparedness and response training, you get a bag full of equipment, a Red Cross first aid kit, and certification in Red Cross First Aid / CPR with AED.
What's in the green bag?
Lots of good stuff to help you respond to disasters. Complete the training and find out!
Why green?
So we are not confused with the red, white and blue of the first responders.
Is there any liability to me?
Yes, you will sign a liability waiver releasing the organizations and individuals involved in the training. However, as long as you operate within the scope of your training you are covered under the "Good Samaritian Act" in a disaster situation.
Other Question or Comments? Email kccert@gmail.com
