Disaster response course for teens offered this month
Students learn to assist responders and support emergency efforts
– Paso Robles Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) will offer a 24-hour disaster preparedness course for teens ages 15 to 19. The course will take place at Centennial Park, 600 Nickerson Drive in Paso Robles, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on July 8, July 9, July 10 and July 11. The final class will be held at Paso Robles Fire Station 3, 2924 Union Road, on July 12 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Students who complete the course will receive a Certificate of Completion and a Teen CERT pack, which includes a helmet, vest, gloves and eye safety protection. The cost of the course is $50.
To register, email training coordinator John Spooner at NorthSLOCountyCERT@gmail.com and indicate interest in the Teen CERT course. Additional class information will be provided after registration. For questions, call (805) 588-2172.
The 24-hour training will teach students how to put out small fires, conduct light search and rescue, assist the injured, set up medical treatment areas, assist emergency responders, identify and anticipate hazards, reduce fire risks at home and school, and help reduce survivor stress.
During an emergency, trained Teen CERT members could organize volunteers, assist with evacuations, help survivors, provide damage assessments, support shelter operations and assist with crowd management.
Teen CERT volunteers may also support their schools year-round by participating in disaster drills and exercises, presenting fire safety education, assisting with preparedness outreach, mentoring peers and addressing school safety issues.
