How do you become a certified CERT volunteer?
A. By completing this online course
B. By completing this course and CERT Basic Training classroom-based course
C. By completing CERT Basic Training web-based course
D. By completing service hours with the CERT sponsoring agency
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is B. By completing this course and CERT Basic Training classroom-based course.
Explanation:
Becoming a certified CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) volunteer typically involves two major components: training and practical application.
- CERT Basic Training: The CERT program is designed to teach individuals how to prepare for and respond to emergencies within their communities. The basic training course is offered in two formats: classroom-based or web-based. However, to become a certified volunteer, you must complete both an introductory online course (if required by your agency) and the classroom-based CERT Basic Training. The classroom-based course is essential as it involves hands-on, practical training that covers skills such as first aid, light search and rescue, fire safety, and disaster medical operations. The classroom training gives you the opportunity to practice these skills in a controlled environment, which is essential for certification.
- Completion of Service Hours: While service hours with the CERT sponsoring agency may be a part of your role, they are not typically a requirement for certification itself. Service hours are more related to your active participation and experience in the field, which can help solidify your skills and knowledge gained during the training. However, they are usually a follow-up requirement for volunteering within the program or as a part of maintaining active status as a CERT volunteer.
- Web-based courses: While the online courses are often a helpful introduction to certain aspects of emergency preparedness, the classroom-based course is the critical component to being certified. This in-person or live classroom experience ensures that the volunteers can actively demonstrate their ability to apply the skills in real-world scenarios.
In conclusion, you must complete both the web-based introductory course and the classroom-based CERT Basic Training course to become a certified CERT volunteer. The certification ensures that volunteers are ready to assist in emergency situations in an organized and effective manner.