The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program is designed to increase individual and community preparedness and self-reliance in the event of man-made or natural disasters.
Many communities across the country have implemented CERT as a preparedness program to assist in the aftermath of an emergency. Individuals are trained in life-saving skills to sustain themselves prior to arrival of emergency services. CERT trained volunteers can also assist local government as Disaster Service Workers when resources are overloaded with emergency response requests.
CERT training encompasses both on-line and hands-on instruction in:
- Disaster Preparedness

- Terrorism Awareness
- Fire Safety
- Disaster Medical Operations
- Light Search and Rescue
- Disaster Psychology
- Disaster Communications
- Team Organization
- Disaster Simulation
The cities of San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point, and San Clemente are combining their efforts in CERT training under a Tri-Cities concept.
Tri-Cities CERT training is offered free to the community to those 18 years and older. Training includes both classroom and hands-on participation. The next class offering is a 6-week, Wednesday evening class at the San Clemente Community Center (100 N. Calle Seville) from Sept. 20 - Oct. 25, 2023, 6:30 pm to 9 pm, and Final Exercise Saturday, Oct. 28, 2023, 7:30 am to 1 pm.
Upon completing the CERT Application below, you will receive information, dates, and location of the next CERT training.
Interested in CERT and want to learn more? Linked below is a free introductory course offered by FEMA. Members of the community interested in participating in online courses and hands-on training opportunities, please sign up below.
FEMA: IS-317.A: Introduction to Community Emergency Response Team (CERTs). https://training.fema.gov/is/courseoverview.aspx?code=IS-317.a
Access the CERT Application online to sign up for training opportunities.