Programs

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program provides all-hazards training to help residents prepare for emergencies and support their families, neighbors, and communities when disasters overwhelm traditional emergency services.

Training covers disaster preparedness, fire safety, disaster medical operations, terrorism preparedness, crime prevention, disaster psychology, animal safety, light search and rescue, and volunteer response. Classes are taught by professionals in their respective fields and include a final exercise.

The program is designed for adults age 18 and older who live or work in Jefferson County. Training is provided at no cost to participants who meet the program requirements.

Disaster Ready Kids

The Disaster Ready Kids program introduces children to home safety and emergency preparedness through age-appropriate educational activities.

JCHSEM has offered children’s groups books, reading activities, preparedness presentations, and guidance on assembling a family disaster kit. For groups with children over age eight, staff have also offered presentations and customized lessons based on the group’s needs.

The program’s published information describes a 2019 summer initiative, so current availability, scheduling, and resources should be confirmed with the department.

StormReady

Jefferson County has been designated a StormReady Community by the National Weather Service since 2004. The StormReady program recognizes communities that take steps to prepare for severe weather and improve public safety.

To earn the designation, communities participate in activities involving emergency communications, receiving National Weather Service information, hydrometeorological monitoring, local warning dissemination, community preparedness, and administration.