The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program trains people to be better prepared to respond to crises in their communities. When emergencies happen, CERT members can give critical support to first responders, provide immediate assistance to victims and organize spontaneous volunteers at a disaster site.

CERT members can also help with non-emergency projects that improve the safety of the community. Initial CERT training will be held in August at the Cobb County Emergency Operations Center, 140 North Marietta Parkway, Marietta.

The class will meet from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 6, 13 and 20. Students must attend all sessions listed in order to complete the program. Participants must be at least 16 years old. All applications are due no later than noon, Friday, July 29. If you would like to register, contact Kimberly Repak at kimberly.repak@cobbcounty.org or at 770-499-4567.

Have you participated in CERT training in the past? What was your experience like? Please comment below.