University of Missouri

Feb. 7, 2024
Contact: Hannah Wichern, WichernH@missouri.edu

To be better prepared for emergencies on campus and in the community, the University of Missouri is increasing emergency preparedness efforts by offering free training programs to students, faculty, staff, and community members. One program, the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training, works to engage community members so they have a better idea of how to assist in an emergency.

CERT became a national program in 1992, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The program is implemented on a local level because all emergencies start and end locally.

"The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training is an opportunity for students, faculty, and staff to be prepared for hazards that our campus faces," said Dale Chambers, deputy director of UM System Emergency Management. "During an emergency or disaster on-campus, students, faculty and staff are all the true first responders. By getting trained in basic disaster response skills, they will be empowered to respond, help themselves, and assist others."

The campus' CERT training begins Feb. 13. It runs over the course of six weeks and will be held each Tuesday from 6 to 9 p.m. in the Legends Room at MizzouRec until March 19. Registration is required by Feb. 12 as space is limited. Parking and directions are provided after registration. Participation in all sessions is required to complete the training and receive certification. This training is open to the public, and there is no cost to participate.