DRC gives boost to community's Emergency Preparedness Training
The Rotary Club of Duncanville is proud to once again provide support to the Best Southwest Regional C.E.R.T. Program for its emergency preparedness training programs which are conducted within our communities. Through a District Grant, our club gave a total of $4,000.00 for community-wide training programs in Duncanville, DeSoto, Cedar Hill, and Lancaster. Being in our backyards gives us the best viewpoint on how to respond best and quickest to an emergency The grant allows our Club to train four members as first responders in disaster or catastrophic events where immediate search and rescue, triage, and emergency aid is needed. Funds are also used for equipment.
So, what is C.E.R.T.?
The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program is part of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or as we know it, FEMA. It educates people about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area. CERT trains volunteers in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. Trained CERT members can assist others in their neighborhood and workplace following an event when professional responders are not immediately available to help. CERT members are also encouraged to support emergency response agencies by taking a more active role in emergency preparedness projects in their community.
There are dozens of highly-organized C.E.R.T. programs nationwide. Duncanville, along with Cedar Hill, DeSoto, and Lancaster are supported by the Best Southwest Unified Citizen Corps. Council, which is the umbrella organization of the Best Southwest C.E.R.T. Program.
Our very own Pat Weaver is an active member of the Best Southwest Unified Citizen Corps. Council, which has responded to eight emergencies including hurricanes/coastal storms, missing person searches, severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, and winter storms. DRC members Bill White, Gwen Brown, Alex Peralta, and Helen Peralta will participate in the CERT training exercises this Spring. More to come, including photos, following our training!
Thank you Duncanville Rotary Club for your support of this vital and important community program!