BATON ROUGE, La. (press release) – Storms like Hurricane Ida remind us all of the critical importance of community preparation and neighbors helping neighbors. Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) are a perfect blend between the two – training members in basic preparedness and emergency response. As we move toward the end of the 2021 hurricane season and look ahead to the 2022 season, Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser and Volunteer Louisiana are encouraging people to become involved and achieve CERT training.
“One of the most important assets we have in Louisiana is our people and their willingness to pitch in and help their neighbors in a time of crisis. It truly says a lot about the Louisiana spirit,” said Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser. “Through Volunteer Louisiana, we want to get people connected with the right trainings. This will help in the coordination of volunteer efforts when federal assistance is not available.”
“Emergency response training is especially critical in Louisiana, and CERT teams can help expand the capacity of local responders,” said Judd Jeansonne, Executive Director of Volunteer Louisiana.
Volunteer Louisiana, in collaboration with the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOSHEP), is supporting CERT Training throughout the state. CERT educates volunteers in disaster readiness to prepare for hazards that may impact their areas. Basic CERT training includes emergency response skills such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations; skills critical to help people care for themselves and others during an emergency.
Upcoming CERT Trainings:
Iberia Parish CERT Training
Iberia Recreation Center
113 Willow Wood Drive
New Iberia, LA 70563
- Dates: Oct. 2 & Oct. 16
- Time: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Registration is required. Anyone interested in participating should visit www.volunteerlouisiana.gov/disaster-services/emergency-preparedness to sign-up.
Volunteer Louisiana, located in the Office of Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser, manages 16 AmeriCorps State programs, promotes volunteerism, and coordinates spontaneous, unaffiliated volunteers in times of disaster. It is supported by grants from the federal agency, AmeriCorps. To learn more about the AmeriCorps State programs or for more information on Volunteer Louisiana, visit www.VolunteerLouisiana.gov.
