Crime & Safety
Volunteers Sought to Join Dearborn Community Emergency Response Team
CERT team members help out in the event of a serious public emergency, as well as at major city events.
The Dearborn Fire Department/Office of Emergency Management invites anyone who lives, works or plays in Dearborn to join them for free training Oct. 12-14 to become a volunteer member of the Community Emergency Response Team.
The 20-hour training program will take place from 6-10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 12; and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 13 -14.
Those who plan to attend the training at Dearborn Police Department, located at 16099 Michigan Ave., should call Emergency Management Coordinator Capt. Brad Smith in advance at 313-943-5470.
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The Dearborn 350-member CERT team comprises trained citizen volunteers who help the community in the event of a significant public safety emergency, such as a tornado touchdown. CERT also assists at major events such as the Memorial Day Parade, Homecoming and Elderfest.
CERT team members must be at least 18 years of age. Minors 17 and younger may train when accompanied by an adult and can join the team once they become 18. All training and equipment is free.
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Residents selected to be CERT volunteers act under the direction of Dearborn’s emergency management officials.
According to Capt. Smith, joining the CERT Team is a great volunteer opportunity that will hold special appeal to individuals focused on disaster readiness.
“We have a strong team of trainers and mentors ready to assist you with your preparedness goals," he said. "This course will be valuable to you, your family and your community."
CERT is about readiness, people helping people, assessing damage and threats, and looking out for the sick or injured. Participation is voluntary, and CERT members are not asked to do any tasks that they would not be comfortable performing.
