#13: CERT Training

Dearest Reader,

In a massive disaster, we will be the first responders for our communities. Emergency personnel simply do not have the resources to reach all of us at once.  That is why being prepared is so critical.   CERT (Community Emergency Response Training) is a great way to get ready.

Last weekend I took the training.  Firefighters, paramedics, and others shared their stories, and I  learned well-intentioned people in emergencies often do more damage than good.   In an attempt to become part of the solution and not part of the problem, we learned how to:

• Triage patients
• Approach potentially dangerous situations
• Suppress a gas fire  (call authorities if you cannot extinguish in 5 seconds)
• Crib to remove survivors from the debris
• Search for survivors
• Document for emergency personal
• Mark a home after a search
  

The community provided breakfast and lunch, showing its appreciation for attendees blowing out their weekend for this potentially life-saving knowledge.

Upon completion, the mayor shook our hands,  gave us certificates, and thanked us for making our community safer. 

CERT training, definitely part of a Life Well-Lived.
​
Love,
M.J.