C.E.R.T. Seeks Members, Hopes to Double Size

Fresh off certifying the first class making up Washington Township’s Office of Emergency Management Community Emergency Response Team (C.E.R.T.), the group’s deputy coordinator is back in recruitment mode.

Jim Smith, the Washington Township Police Department’s facilities manager spent five months coordinating trainings and lesson plans for the group of 11 town volunteers, who will now aid the town and first responders during emergency situations.

Smith already has five members signed up for the second class, he said, but is looking for much more.

“The first class (of 11) is great, but I’d like to double the total number,” Smith said. “I think a team of 20 to 25 members would be very strong.”

Volunteers who sign up to be part of the group will go through background checks, CPR training and other forms of emergency management preparation.

When certified, those volunteers will assist the town’s first responders by manning shelters, blocking roadways when closed and doing any other tasks requested by the Office of Emergency Management in a time of need.

Anyone interested in joining the group can go to the department’s website and download the proper application form and return it to Smith via fax or email.