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Marvin VE3VCG

I've done a lot of research on the CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) program. CERT was originally developed by FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Administration) in the US after some well placed criticism of the agencies slow and disjointed response after the disaster created by Hurricane Katrina August 2005.

The intention of CERT is to create community based emergency response teams. These teams, trained by professionals in correct emergency response procedures, become the on the ground first responders after a disaster. CERT also includes EmComm radio operators as part of local emergency teams.

I like the CERT approach to emergency preparedness. It is not limited to simple support of served agencies, but also provides for a rapid civilian response to the immediate needs of the community they serve. Communications is an obvious part of that response.

I like the idea embodied by the slogan on web page "Neighbors helping Neighbors". For me this is what EmComm is really about.

You can learn more about CERT EmComm at the following page CERT EmComm group