The CERT Basic Training is a comprehensive 20-hour course that combines classroom instruction with hands-on exercises. Training concludes with a final disaster simulation drill where you’ll apply all the skills you’ve learned in a realistic emergency scenario. The course covers:
Unit 1: Disaster Preparedness covers the types of disasters than can happen in Marin County and how to get ready for them.
Unit 2: CERT Organization covers how to organize teams during an emergency, gather important information, and coordinate effective response efforts.
Unit 3: Disaster Medical Operations I covers how to treat life-threatening conditions like blocked airways, bleeding, and shock. Includes basic first aid for injuries like sprains and broken bones.
Unit 4:Disaster Medical Operations II expands on Unit 3 with injury assessment techniques and treatment for burns, bites, stings, and nosebleeds.
Unit 5: Disaster Psychology covers how to help survivors, responders, and yourself cope with extreme stress after a disaster.
Unit 6: Fie Safety and Utility Controls covers how to prevent fires, safely shut off utilities, and practice using a fire extinguisher.
Unit 7: Light Search and Rescue Operations offers hands-on training in safe search techniques and rescue operations using basic equipment.
Unit 8: CERT and Terrorism explains current terrorism trends and measures CERT volunteers can take to increase preparedness before and safety during a terrorism incident.