The Community Emergency Response Team, or CERT, is a concept developed in 1985 by the Los Angeles Fire Department. They recognized that citizens would very likely be on their own during the early stages of a catastrophic disaster. Accordingly, the LAFD decided that some basic training in disaster survival and rescue skills would improve the ability of citizens to survive until emergency personnel could arrive. Thus, CERT teams were created to provide vital services in the absence of emergency responders. Today, more than 38 states and several foreign countries have instituted the CERT system.

The events of September 11 will never be forgotten; also not forgotten is how the spirit of America was awakened that day and citizens came forth to volunteer their services. President George W. Bush harnessed this spirit of volunteerism with the Citizen Corps program. CERT is a part of the Citizen Corps Program.

East Orange's commitment to public safety and quick response in times of emergency has prompted us to implement this program. Working together with our residents, we can ensure all available resources are easily accessible at critical times.

Course Overview

The CERT training consists of 20-30 hours of instruction over an eight-week period. Classes are taught by emergency responders, including firefighters, emergency medical and law enforcement personnel from East Orange.

How Can I Join?

To become an East Orange CERT member you must be at least 18 years of age and possess a valid driver's license. If you want to volunteer your services and become trained to protect yourself and families from disasters; natural or man-made, become a CERT member. 

For more information, contact the
East Orange Office of Emergency Management at (973) 677-8924.