Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)

CERT educates individuals about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area, and trains them in basic disaster response skills such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization and disaster medical operations. Using training learned in the classroom and during exercises, CERT volunteers can assist others in their community following a disaster when professional responders are not immediately available to help. CERT volunteers are also encouraged to support emergency response agencies by taking an active role in emergency preparedness projects.

Founded on March 6, 2004, the Easthampton CERT is a highly trained group of volunteers that is there to serve at a moment's notice. They help the Easthampton Fire and Police Departments with events such as the fireworks, Memorial Day parade, the Rag Shag parade, the Holiday Stroll, Whobilation and much more.

The team assists the fire department at large fires by changing and filling air bottles as well as assisting in medical monitoring and fire ground rehab. When the police department needs extra hands blocking roads and controlling traffic, their first call is the team. Easthampton CERT has been called out across the state to search for missing persons and to staff shelters. Easthampton CERT also deployed to the Town of Monson to assist after the tornado devastated that town, and was requested by the State Fire Marshal to assist with fire ground rehab during the Northampton Arson spree.

Vision

Our vision is to support first responders with trained volunteers that organize themselves at the disaster site and provide immediate assistance to victims. We are committed to providing the best public service through education, training and volunteer service.

Mission

Our mission is to serve and safeguard the citizens of Easthampton through a professional, efficient and effective system of volunteer services, which protect life, environment and property.

Awards

Easthampton CERT was awarded the "Easthampton Police Community Service Award" for continued dedication and commitment to the residents of Easthampton and the Easthampton Police Department by providing comfort and assistance to those in need.

Become a Part of the Easthampton CERT

If being a part of Easthampton's Community Emergency Response Team sounds interesting, give us a shout for more information. 

For more information, call Easthampton Public Safety at 413-527-1212 or check out Easthampton CERT on Facebook!