Starting a CERT Program
Step 7: Delivering Training
Words of Advice: Tips for Delivering CERT Training
Joe Lowry - Memphis, Tennessee
Combine Lecture With Exercises
We begin the training with lectures supported by video, slides, and overhead projected materials. Whenever possible, we combine the lecture with practical, tabletop, and team-building exercises. A disaster simulation is staged to allow students to apply their newly acquired skills in a realistic environment with multiple casualties.
Frank Lucier - San Francisco, California
Make Training Effective and Fun
I feel that the initial training is the critical. That's when you get the volunteers in the door. If that training isn't effective and enjoyable for the participants, you will lose them forever.
Rachel Jacky - Portland, Oregon
Use Training Props
In addition to the printed material, training props are critical for demonstrating skills and giving students the opportunity to practice those skills.
Joe Lowry - Memphis, Tennessee
Bring Neighbors Together for a Common Goal
The most beneficial CERT training we offer is not in the classroom at all. We feel it's very critical to stress the importance of getting to know each other's neighbors. We teach people that in a catastrophic event, it will be their neighbors that they will be looking at. We help to open the doors for these people so they can know how to pool their resources within their individual neighborhoods. This type of training brings neighbors together for a common goal.