Free Emergency Response Training Available for DeKalb Residents

DECATUR, Ga. – DeKalb County Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) is hosting two free Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training classes.

The first nine-week class begins on Sept. 5 and will be held on Tuesday evenings from 7–9:30 p.m. at DeKalb Fire Rescue Headquarters, 1950 West Exchange Place, Tucker, GA 30084.

A second nine-week CERT class for the deaf and hard of hearing, with certified American Sign Language interpreters, will begin on Sept. 7 and will be held on Thursday evenings from 7–9:30 p.m. at DeKalb Fire Rescue Headquarters.

Participants will learn what to do before, during and after a disaster occurs. The training will also teach citizens to care for family members and neighbors.

Course topics include:

•           Disaster preparedness

•           Basic fire suppression

•           Medical operations

•           Light search and rescue operations

•           Disaster psychology

•           Team organization and terrorism

•           Autism awareness

The workshop is free for DeKalb County citizens, and all participants must pass a background check. For more information or to register, contact Emergency Management Specialist Thomas Paige at tpaige@dekalbcountyga.gov or 678-406-7858.

###