HUNTLEY – Most people know they can dial 9-1-1 in an emergency, yet it is not widely known that with some training, they can do much more.
The Huntley Illinois Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) works to empower citizens to be the first line of defense in an emergency and to assist professional responders, like police and firefighters.
CERT member and Sun City resident Linda Wiza understands that to some, the idea of ordinary citizens responding during disasters sounds strange.
“When people hear about CERT, one of the things that they get afraid of is they say to me ‘I wouldn’t be good in a disaster,’ and that’s one of the key things we do is to give you the training so that it gives you the confidence,” she said.
Wiza added not all roles in responding to disasters involve brawn and strength.
“Even though you think that you may not be good in a disaster or you don’t have the physical strength to help out, there are things that you can do as far as helping someone emotionally or just to guide them along and help them in a disaster,” she said. “It does not require physical strength; it just is a matter of helping your community.”
The CERT training program teaches students how to respond to various emergencies to protect themselves, their families, and their communities.
During training, students are placed in emergency scenarios so they will have some familiarity in the event of a real emergency. The scenarios reflect what could actually happen in the area. In Huntley, for example, this includes tornadoes and hazardous material situations caused by trucks or trains.
Although knowing what to do in an emergency is critical, it is also necessary that responders have the courage to act. Huntley Illinois CERT Coordinator Sean Smith said the program works to encourage students to take action.
“That’s all we’re trying to do is we’re trying to establish some confidence in our citizens, confidence in our CERT members to understand and maybe take first aid to the next level,” he said.
At the end of the training program, students receive a certificate and a choice.
“At that point, it is up to you whether you want to be part of the team or whether you just want to go home and say ‘All right, now I know what to do in a disaster,’ so that’s when you make the choice,” Wiza said.
Those who choose to continue with CERT can become certified trainers by taking a “train the trainer” course and learning the necessary skills.
The Huntley Illinois CERT program works with the Huntley Police Department and the Huntley Citizen Corps Council. The program reports to Sergeant Michael Hewett of the Huntley Police Department.
CERT began in 1985 with the Los Angeles City Fire Department. The focus on community preparedness was sharpened after the Whittier Narrows earthquake in 1987 highlighted the impact of natural disasters in the area.
Since then, the program has spread nationwide, with Huntley’s program beginning in 2009. Smith said the young program is trying to publicize itself and gain new members.
Anyone interested in participating in the CERT training program is encouraged to call Smith at 847-791-4662, or to find the Huntley Illinois CERT page on Facebook.com. There is no cost to participate.
