Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program prepares Kent County residents to assist their community during emergencies and disasters. Through structured training, participants learn how to safely respond to incidents when professional responders may be delayed or overwhelmed.

Kent County offers both traditional in-person CERT training and the Hybrid CERT (CERT 3.0) format, which combines online coursework with in-person practical skills training.

CERT strengthens community resilience by training residents in practical, lifesaving skills.

What is CERT?

CERT is a nationally supported emergency preparedness program that provides training in disaster preparedness, emergency response, and team coordination.

CERT members are not first responders. Volunteers operate within the scope of their training and under Kent County Department of Public Safety guidance when activated.

Training Options

Kent County offers two training pathways:

Option 1: Traditional In-Person CERT

Participants attend all classroom instruction and hands-on practical sessions in person over multiple scheduled sessions.

Option 2: Hybrid CERT (CERT 3.0)

Hybrid CERT allows participants to complete the classroom portion online at their own pace, followed by an in-person practical skills training.

Hybrid Training Structure

Part 1: Online Training
• Complete CERT 3.0 online modules
• Self-paced
• Must complete all required units

Part 2: In-Person Practical Skills
• Hands-on training
• Disaster simulations
• Skills validation
• Required for full CERT certification

Completion of the online portion alone does NOT constitute CERT certification.

Participants must complete both Part 1 (Online) and Part 2 (Practical Skills) to receive full CERT certification.

How to Register for Hybrid CERT

Step 1: Visit the CERT 3.0 Online Course Portal
https://cert.hazready.com/CourseCatalog?friendlyId=DP000072

Step 2: Select “REGISTER”

New Users:
• Complete the registration form
• Select your local CERT program from the dropdown menu

Returning Users:
• Login under “Existing Users”
• Use the same “Register” button to access your account

Step 3: Complete All Online Units

Students must demonstrate completion of the online portion by providing either:
• Certificate of Completion
OR
• Printed Transcript (available under the Profile > Transcript tab)

This confirms completion of the online portion only.

Students must submit proof of completion to the Kent County CERT Program before attending the Practical Skills training.

For technical support related to the online platform:
OnlineCERT@utah.edu

What You Will Learn

CERT training includes:

• Disaster preparedness and hazard awareness
• CERT organization and team structure
• Disaster medical operations (triage and basic treatment)
• Fire safety and utility control
• Light search and rescue techniques
• Disaster psychology and responder wellness
• Hands-on disaster simulations

Who Can Join

Kent County CERT is open to individuals who live, work, or attend school in Kent County.

• No prior experience required
• Must meet minimum age requirements (see training announcement)
• Must be able to participate in light physical activity
• Must complete all required training components

We welcome individuals from all backgrounds who are committed to serving their community.

After Certification

Certified CERT members may:

• Participate in community preparedness outreach
• Assist during exercises and drills
• Support County-led emergency operations when requested
• Continue advanced training opportunities

Volunteer activation occurs only through Kent County Department of Public Safety protocols.

Get Involved

If you are interested in becoming part of the Kent County CERT program, please complete the interest form below.

Delaware Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)

For questions, contact:

Matthew Sacks
Kent County Department of Public Safety
Emergency Management Division

Email: emergency.management@kentcountyde.gov
Phone: 302-735-2200