New CERT+ Classes Offered in Tuscaloosa

Tuscaloosa County EMA and the Alabama Fire College are coming together to host a Community Emergency Response Team Plus (CERT+) program this fall. A number of local first responder groups will be offering their expertise as instructors for the program, including Tuscaloosa Fire Rescue Service, Northport Fire Rescue, and the Tuscaloosa County Sheriff’s Office.

The CERT program is designed to teach communities the skills to react as a cohesive and valuable asset during emergency situations. In situations such as natural disasters, first responders’ primary focus is on those in immediate danger. CERT allows members of the community to provide assistance and take care of family, neighbors, and areas that may be less impacted but still need help. More information about the CERT training can be found here.

Community members who go through CERT will learn the basics of first aid, search and rescue, fire safety, emergency preparedness, and other valuable skills. CERT+ adds an extra level of training that is not on the standard CERT curriculum. In addition to basic CERT knowledge, trainees will also go through a storm spotter class and learn about opportunities to volunteer in their communities outside of a disaster response. The program will culminate in a practical exercise to help test and reinforce newly learned skills. Students would also have the opportunity to participate in an annual exercise to test out their skills.

The classes will be held as a series of nine 2.5 hour sessions on Monday nights at the Alabama Fire College in Building B. The Fire College is located behind the Shelton State Community College campus. The class is open to anyone 16 and older. While the training is free, there is a nominal cost in the assembly of a disaster response kit which includes a backpack, hardhat, gloves, and sturdy boots. Registration will be conducted through the Alabama Fire College. Fall classes start at the end of September and last through November. There will be another class offered in the spring that begins in late January.

For registration click here or call: 205-349-0150