PRINCESS ANNE — After hurricanes, floods, fires and other disasters Somerset County Emergency Services relies on volunteers to help protect lives and property as members of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).

It does not replace highly-trained firefighters, EMS or law enforcement but works to support them where needed.

According to Emergency Planner Jerred A. Johnson, “CERT members could be called upon to assist with traffic control at not only emergency scenes, but local events. Members will learn search and rescue skills, emergency communications, and all about Incident Command Systems and response.

“As we have often seen, the volunteer fire and medical services in this county are stretched thin. CERT members could be called upon to assist the fire and EMS services by distributing water, food, or cooling packs as needed. There is no limit to the ways in which CERT members can help in any situation.”

Members of CERT are 100% volunteer and anyone over the age of 18 can take the training (there will be a criminal background check). At least 20 persons must be in the class for it to be held.

For more information or to enroll, contact Mr. Johnson at 410-651-3457 or by email at jajohnson@somersetmd.us.