The Westport Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) reminds residents that it is conducting an emergency preparedness class for Fairfield County residents from April 21 to May 17.   

CERT volunteers are trained in a variety of emergency topics such as first aid, CPR, fire control, hazardous materials, search and rescue, disaster psychology, team organization and terrorism. 

Westport Police Department Chief Alfred Fiore said that he is “happy to have the CERT organization as a Division of the Westport Police, trained and available to help Westport emergency services.” 

Trained team members help local police, fire, emergency medical services (EMS) and Red Cross personnel, as well as local residents and neighbors in a disaster or other crisis situations. CERT members also conduct educational programs for the community. The class is limited to 25 people. Residents are encouraged to register now. 

Westport First Selectman Gordon Joseloff said CERT volunteers were especially helpful during last year’s Nor’easter weekend rains which caused extensive flooding and damage. 

“CERT volunteers performed well in that situation but we could always use more,” he said. “I encourage people to join CERT because having citizens able and willing to help who are trained in emergency preparedness makes our community safer for all."     

Interested persons should contact CERT via e-mail at info@westportcert.org, or call (203) 341-6099 or (203) 685-1150, or visit its Web site at www.westportcert.org.

Class Schedule:  April 21 to May 17 — Seven classes, 24 hours of training, evenings and  Saturday classes. The full schedule is on the CERT Web site.

Location: Westport, Police and Fire Departments

Eligibility: Fairfield County Resident, 18 years or older (all ages welcome)

Cost:  Free. No charge for training or materials.

Sponsors: Westport Police, Fire, EMS, Mid-Fairfield Red Cross Chapter