Residents encouraged to sign up for emergency response training

Members of a CERT training class take part in a simulated disaster recovery exercise.

The Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department, in partnership with the Broyhill Crest Community Association, is offering a free Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training course for the Broyhill Crest and St. Alban’s communities March 2-April 27.

There will be eight sessions, 7-9:30 p.m., at St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, 6800 Columbia Pike, Annandale. The final class is a simulated disaster exercise.

The CERT program educates volunteers about disaster preparedness, covering fire safety, search and rescue, victim assessment, team organization, and disaster medical operations. The team would be activated during a major natural or man-made disaster, such as storms, floods, or terrorist attacks.

Related story: CERT course teaches neighbors to take charge during emergencies

During a disaster, a CERT team allows professional first responders to focus on more complex tasks.

The training is open to all residents age 18 and older. To sign up, contact Beverly Schlotterbeck [email protected] or 703-641-5665.