For assistance in responding to fires and school shootings, Coral Springs residents rely on emergency CERT training
Coral Springs, Florida – Patti Myette didn’t hesitate when a fire broke out in her Coral Springs community of Ramblewood East.
Myette intervened, using her expertise as a member of the Coral Springs Parkland Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) to assist locals and manage the incident after flames destroyed one building and condemned another.
They had tested her training before.
Myette used the same abilities to assist first responders and others in the chaotic scenario while she was on the ground following the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in Parkland.
Myette remarked, “The training just takes over,” “You focus on what needs to be done in the moment.”
Myette, a former teacher’s assistant and caregiver for her crippled husband, enrolled in the CERT training to gain personal readiness skills but instead found a greater calling in community service.
“My initial goal was simply to learn emergency techniques that could help me care for my husband,” Myette stated. “As a native Floridian, I thought I was proactive about hurricanes, but I realized I lacked knowledge in first aid, search and rescue, and other essential skills.”
After storming Wilma in 2005, Myette attended a storm preparedness seminar that marked the beginning of her career in emergency response.
Encouraged by her husband, Myette seized the chance to serve her community and safeguard her family, she added.
She has dealt with numerous crises over the years, using her CERT training to remain composed and act decisively.
One instance that put her skills to the test was the fire in Ramblewood East.
According to Myette, she oversaw safety procedures, offered logistical assistance, and tried to help the displaced locals deal with the destruction.
Since its inception in 2003, hundreds of residents have received training from the local CERT program, which is backed by the local fire department.
In order to be able to assist first responders during situations like fires and storms, participants acquire critical emergency response and disaster preparedness skills.
According to Myette, joining CERT has been a means of giving back and making a difference.
“I love that no matter your level, there’s always something you can learn and contribute,” she stated. “You don’t have to be everything to everybody—you’re part of a team.”
