TO: Interested “Citizens Emergency Response Team” Candidates
FROM: Robert Olsson, Emergency Management Director
SUBJECT: CERT Team Training
In March, 2016 the town will begin a training class for the Hingham Citizens Emergency Response Team (CERT). Members of the teams will not be considered 1st responders but will serve in support functions to the fire department, police department, and emergency management, during times of emergency and at special events that are held within the community. The training will also stress the importance of being safe in your home and assisting your neighbors. Many times during major emergencies or severe weather events, the public safety agencies are stressed to their limits and assistance from trained civilians can be of great benefit to the community.
The first class will consist of 12-15 people. The class will start in March of 2016 at the Fire Headquarters at 339 Main Street. Please do not get discouraged if you are not chosen for this training class. It does not mean that your ability to serve the town in a volunteer capacity is not wanted or will not be utilized. We will maintain a list of all willing volunteers and your name will be placed on the list as someone we could call if needed.
To be a member of the team, you must be able to perform light rescue work, work with hand tools, handle a fire extinguisher, provide basic first aid and work under stress. It may be necessary at times while working with a group to move people from a dangerous area or building to a safe area. It is extremely important that you be physically able to perform the above functions.
We look forward to working with you. Again I would like to stress that if you are not chosen, it does not mean that we are not interested in your ability to help the community or will not be chosen for future classes.
We have enclosed an application and training schedule. Attendance is mandatory for all classes. Please return the application to the Hingham Fire Department at 339 Main St. no later than February 29, 2016
Please feel to call Fire Department Administration for more information (781-741-1416).