New CERT training academy welcomes Coral Springs and Parkland residents to learn emergency response skills this summer
Coral Springs, Florida – This summer, residents of Coral Springs and Parkland have the opportunity to become better prepared for emergencies through a new Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Basic Training Academy. The program is completely free and aims to provide locals with critical life-saving skills.
Organized by the Coral Springs-Parkland CERT, the training academy will begin with a virtual informational webinar on Friday, May 31, from 9 to 10 a.m. This session is designed to introduce interested participants to the goals of the CERT program and provide an overview of the training process.
Participants in the program will receive a mix of online and in-person instruction totaling 28 hours. The comprehensive curriculum covers essential topics including fire safety, disaster medical operations, light search and rescue, and disaster psychology. The on-demand coursework allows for flexible learning, while the in-person sessions offer valuable hands-on experience.
The four in-person training sessions are scheduled on four consecutive Fridays—June 14, June 21, June 28, and July 5—from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. These sessions are structured to reinforce the knowledge gained during the online lessons and help build confidence in real-world scenarios.
After successfully completing the course, graduates will be eligible to become official CERT members. These volunteers may be called upon to assist first responders and provide support to their communities during natural disasters, public emergencies, and large-scale events.
“The CERT program is a great way for residents to get involved and help their neighbors during emergencies,” said a program organizer. “It empowers people with the knowledge and skills to stay safe and to make a real difference when it counts.”
CERT programs are a national initiative supported by FEMA and local agencies to strengthen community resilience. The Coral Springs-Parkland CERT has a long-standing reputation for promoting public safety and teamwork in crisis situations.
Those interested in joining the upcoming academy are encouraged to attend the virtual webinar to learn more. For many, it’s the first step toward becoming a trained and confident community responder.
