Linn County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) members are local volunteers trained in disaster preparedness and basic emergency response.
CERT training equips community members with skills that go beyond typical household preparedness, giving them the ability to help their families, neighbors, and communities in times of disaster. CERT members work alongside first responders by providing support and organization during emergencies, helping to bridge the gap until additional resources arrive.
Applicants register to take the CERT Basic Training Academy, which includes disaster preparedness, fire safety, disaster medical, light search and rescue, and other essential topics. All applicants must complete a background check before attending the course.
After completing the training, participants who wish to volunteer with the Linn County Sheriff’s Office CERT program will need to submit a separate application. Volunteer applicants will also go through a full background investigation prior to acceptance.
CERT graduates who choose to volunteer maintain and build on their skills through ongoing simulations and activities throughout the year.
For more information, please contact the Linn County CERT Program Coordinator at cert.shari@hotmail.com or the Assistant Emergency Manager at mbecker@linnsheriff.org