View CERT Training Photos Following a major disaster, first responders will be challenged to meet the increased demand for service. Communities, such as Loudoun County, will have to rely on each other for help in order to meet their life-saving and life-sustaining needs and can form Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) to help accomplish this goal.

CERT training will: Define the commitment needed on the part of the CERT volunteers. Present the facts about what to expect following a major disaster. Organize teams so that they are an extension of first responder services offering immediate help to victims until fire and medical services arrive. Provide training in needed life saving skills with emphasis on first aid, search and rescue, damage assessment and neighborhood support in times of crisis. Spread the message to the other residents about responsibility for mitigation and preparedness. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the State of Virginia and the Loudoun County Government recognize the importance of preparing citizens. CERTs are currently being established in Loudoun County communities to coordinate training opportunities. Successful CERTs can be community groups such as neighborhood associations, service organizations and religious organizations, business and industry workers, and local government workers. A CERT training course will benefit any citizen who takes it. CERT is a positive and realistic approach to emergency and disaster situations where citizens may be initially on their own and their actions can make a difference!  For More Information Cheryl Warren Office of Emergency Management 16600 Courage Court Leesburg, VA, 20175 Phone: 703-777-0333 e-mail: click to e-mail