About CERT

What is CERT?

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program educates residents in disaster preparedness and equips them with practical skills to safely assist themselves, their families, and their neighbors during emergencies. Through classroom instruction and hands-on training, CERT members learn how to prepare for disasters, provide basic medical care, suppress small fires, conduct light search and rescue, and work effectively as part of a team.

CERT is a national program sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and administered locally by the Central County Fire Department for the communities of Burlingame, Hillsborough, and Millbrae.

See how CCFD CERT made an impact in our community by reading our 2025 Annual Report.

Why CERT Matters

Two people in safety gear are using a fire extinguisher on a small fire, while a third person observes nearby.

During a major disaster, emergency responders will prioritize the most life-threatening incidents and may not be able to reach every neighborhood immediately. Damaged infrastructure, communication disruptions, and overwhelming demand for emergency services can delay assistance.

CERT prepares everyday residents to safely care for themselves, their households, and those around them until professional help arrives. By building practical skills before disasters occur, CERT helps create stronger, safer, and more resilient communities.

CERT members do not replace firefighters, paramedics, or law enforcement. Instead, they provide immediate assistance within the limits of their training while supporting professional responders when requested.

What You'll Learn

A group in safety vests and helmets is carrying a person on a stretcher, likely participating in a training or emergency drill.

CERT Basic Training combines classroom instruction with hands-on practice in topics including:

  • Disaster Preparedness
  • CERT Organization
  • Disaster Medical Operations
  • Disaster Psychology
  • Fire Safety & Utility Control
  • Light Search & Rescue
  • Terrorism & CERT
  • Disaster Simulation Exercise

A National Program with Local Impact

The CERT concept was developed by the Los Angeles City Fire Department in 1985 following lessons learned from major disasters. The program was later adopted and expanded by FEMA and is now offered in thousands of communities across the United States.

Today, the Central County Fire Department proudly continues that mission by training local volunteers who are prepared to help themselves, assist their neighbors, and support community preparedness efforts.

Beyond the Classroom

Two people stand at a booth for the Central County Fire CERT Program, featuring a prize wheel and various informational materials.

Graduation is just the beginning. CCFD CERT members have opportunities to continue building their knowledge and skills through monthly team meetings, hands-on refresher trainings, disaster exercises, community preparedness events, and specialized training opportunities.

Members also support public education and preparedness outreach throughout Burlingame, Hillsborough, and Millbrae, helping build a more informed and resilient community.

Join CCFD CERT

Whether you're interested in learning lifesaving skills, becoming better prepared for emergencies, or giving back to your community, CERT offers an opportunity to make a meaningful difference.

View our Upcoming CERT Trainings page to learn how to become a CCFD CERT member.