Community Emergency Response Team

CERT instructors believe that everyone can serve their communities before, during and after a disaster. CERT is open to adults and teens of all ages and abilities.

Anyone 18 or older can take a basic CERT training. Teens between 13-17 can participate with written permission from their parent or guardian. Youths between 11 and 12 must obtain written permission from their parent or guardian and the parent or guardian must accompany them to CERT trainings and events.

The first step to becoming a CERT volunteer is to complete a CERT basic class. Then you can join a CERT team in your area.

To find an active CERT team in your area, contact our state CERT Coordinator, Celso Rangel.

Basic CERT courses are taught at the local level. All CERT classes are FREE! 

Instruction and course materials are available in Chinese (simplified and traditional), English, Korean and Spanish. Braille materials are available on request.

Local CERT programs post upcoming classes on the Washington Department of Emergency Management’s training calendar.

If you can’t find a CERT class you need near you or you would like to work with a local CERT sponsoring organization to hold a class in your area, contact our state CERT Coordinator, Celso Rangel.

Serve Washington does not run local CERT programs.  We work with local CERTs to make sure their programs meet credentialing and other state requirements for volunteers and disaster workers. We provide support to organizations, groups and individuals who wish to start a CERT program in their community. We also help connect interested volunteers to CERT programs in their area.

You can register your CERT–or become an individual member– with the National CERT Association. NCA members receive newsletters and discounts for National CERT conference registration. Note: You do not have to join the NCA to participate in any CERT activity.

• Make a plan
• Build a disaster supplies kit
• Help your community prepare and respond to a disaster

• Threats and hazards facing Washington State
• Individuals and families
• Pets
• Neighborhoods
• Businesses
• Schools

EMD video library: Watch Washington-specific preparedness videos (available in multiple languages)