Home
Government
Departments A - F
Emergency Services
CERT Program

CERT Program

What is the CERT Program?

When a major disaster happens, fire, EMS, and rescue teams may not be able to help everyone right away. That's why it is important for neighbors to be ready to help one another when disaster strikes. Trained neighbors can make a difference in their community by using their skills to bridge the gap and provide immediate help before emergency crews arrive.

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training teaches community members essential skills to care for themselves and others during emergencies. CERT training is free and available to anyone who wants to help make their community more prepared for disasters.

After completing training, you are encouraged to join Orange County CERT. These volunteers can assist emergency operations, receive ongoing training, and help build a more prepared community.

What are the benefits of CERT Training?

The benefits of completing basic CERT training include free emergency preparedness training, opportunity to assist in emergency operations, and community involvement. As an added bonus, CERT members receive educational materials, CERT equipment (as available), and a certificate of completion.

Participants may receive this training with no obligation or commitment to respond or act in the event of a disaster.

What Will I Learn?

The CERT curriculum consists of nine (9) modules:

Disaster Preparedness and Team Organization
Disaster Fire Suppression
Disaster Medical Operations (1)
Disaster Medical Operations (2)
CPR and First Aid
Light Search and Rescue Operations
Disaster Psychology
Terrorism
Course Review and Simulation

Additionally, the Orange County CERT, in partnership with Orange County Emergency Services, may periodically offer advanced training opportunities for those who have already completed CERT Basic Training.

When is the Next Training and How do I Register?

Orange County Emergency Services typically offers basic CERT training twice a year. This in-person training is offered in the evenings once-a-week for nine weeks. To find CERT offerings in the area, visit the NC TERMS calendar and type "CERT" in the title field.

CERT Basic Training 25-1 (Spring Course)

Location: Orange County Emergency Services / Hillsborough

Dates/Times: Every Wednesday 4/16/25 – 6/11/25 from 6:30p – 8:30p

Registration Link: OC CERT Basic 25-1

OC CERT Basic 25-2 (Fall Course)

Location: Orange County Emergency Services / Hillsborough

Dates/Times: Every Wednesday 9/17/25 – 11/5/25

Registration Link: OC CERT Basic 25-2

(Note: you do not have to take the training in Orange County to join Orange County CERT)

Already CERT Certified?

If you obtained your CERT basic certification (IS-317) outside of Orange County, you are welcome and encouraged to join Orange County CERT!

Contact CERT@orangecountync.gov to get connected

Orange County CERT Council

The Orange County CERT Council is the volunteer leadership team tasked with steering and coordinating the activities of CERT in Orange County. The council is comprised of nine (9) members that are elected by active Orange County CERT members. Council members serve a two-year term and are ideally representative of the County's diverse community.

CERT council meetings are open to any member of Orange County CERT.

For more information, contact the CERT council at CERT@orangecountync.gov.