The Poquoson Fire and Rescue Department and Poquoson CERT Council will conduct a CERT training course scheduled to begin on Wednesday, March 7, 2012. Classes are scheduled for Monday, March 12, 19, 26, Wednesday, April 4, and Monday, April 9 and 16. CERT training provides citizens with the knowledge and skills to help their families be better prepared for emergencies, and to help their neighborhood and the city following a major emergency or disaster. In times such as these, our professional fire and medical first responders may not be immediately available and CERT trained citizens can provide assistance until help arrives.

Topics covered in the training include: CERT overview and expectations, disaster preparedness, fire safety and suppression, medical operations, light search and rescue, CERT organization, disaster psychology, terrorism, and practical skill training and exercise.

The course is free and limited to Poquoson residents 18 years or older. Residents interested in participating in CERT training should be prepared to attend all scheduled classes for seven weeks from 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm at Fire Station #1 on Poquoson Ave. and on Saturday, April 21 for practical skill training, a simulated disaster exercise and graduation.

If you are interested in participating in CERT training, please contact Lisa Holloway at 869-5752 or poquosoncert@gmail.com.