Big Bear, Ca, January 26, 2012, 12:00pm – The Big Bear Fire Departments are offering Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) courses from April 2nd till the 6th. The CERT program is designed to train members of the community as emergency service volunteers. Once trained, CERT volunteers respond to disaster situations by fanning out within their neighborhood putting out small fires, turning off natural gas inlets to damaged homes, performing light search and rescue, and administering basic first aid. Area Representatives and Team Leaders have been established throughout Big Bear Valley but more participation is still needed. As many residents know, Big Bear Valley has seen fires, floods, and earthquakes. Local fire agencies want everyone to be prepared and well trained for disaster situations. The CERT program is a series of five courses, four hours each, providing hands-on training in Emergency Preparedness, Medical Aids, Fire Suppression Techniques, Light Search and Rescue, and Communications. Classes take place April 2nd through April 6th, which is a Monday trough Friday from 6pm till 10pm at night at the Paradise Training Facility located at 417 Grenfall in Big Bear City. Classes fill up quickly so register early by calling the fire department at 866-4668.
