Initially, Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) programs were developed to assist communities in taking care of themselves in the aftermath of a major disaster when first responders are overwhelmed or unable to respond because of communication or transportation difficulties. As the CERT concept has taken hold across the country, however, CERTs have become much more than originally envisioned. CERTs have proven themselves to be an active and vital part of their communities' preparedness and response capabilties. For example, CERTs have been used to:

• Distribute and/or install smoke alarms and batteries to those living in low-income housing
• Assist with evacuations and traffic control
• Promote community awareness of potential hazards and preparedness measures
• Supplement staffing at special events, such as festivals and parades
• Act as victims in training exercises and drills
• Assist with vaccine clinics

CERTs are an investment of local government's time and resources. To capitalize on this investment, program sponsors can view CERT volunteers as a force-multiplier that can assist with public safety activities. Such an approach will actively involve members in their communities beyond disaster response and add value to the CERT program. CERT programs welcome individuals of all abilities.

Upcoming Events:
October 5 & 26: CERT Basic Training, Matthews
December 14 & 15: CERT Train-the-Trainer in Spanish, Raleigh
December 16: NC CERT Forum, via Webex
Jan 10 - 18: CERT Basic Training, Sanford
Jan 31 - Feb 2: CERT Basic Training, Wilmington
Mar 21 - 23: CERT Basic Training, Cary
Mar 22 & 23: CERT Train-the-Trainer, TBD (in Eastern Branch)
Apr 11 - 13, CERT Basic Training, Apex
Jun 21 & 22, CERT Train-the-Trainer, TBD (Western Branch)
Jul 19 & 20: CERT Program Manager, Raleigh
Sep 19 - 21, CERT Basic Training, Apex
Oct 11 & 12: CERT Train-the-Trainer, TBD (Central Branch)

Past Events:
Videos of past NC CERT Forums can be found on our YouTube page.

Forms:
NC CERT Class Request Form
Application for New CERT Program
NC CERT Code of Conduct
NC CERT Responder Application

Contact:
Samantha Royster & Sean Canoy
NC CERT Program, NCEM, 1636 Gold Star Drive, Raleigh, NC 27607
Phone: 919-906-4941 
Email: cert@ncdps.gov 

See below for NC CERT Standard Operating Guidelines and a listing of NC CERT Programs (updated 4/30/2024).