County residents have survived through wildfires, floods, mudslides, and earthquakes.

Ventura County Fire Department in coordination with FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) have joined together to assist its’ residents with disaster preparedness education and training.

Following a major disaster, first responders who provide fire and medical services will not be able to meet the demand for service typically rendered. The local population will have to rely on each other for help in order to meet their immediate life saving, and life sustaining needs. The Community Emergency Response Team is a program that focuses on that preparedness.

This program took on added significance after the events of September 11, 2001 and in response, the president endorsed these volunteer programs with grant funds.

CERT teams within each community are to be prepared, self-activated, independently organized, and neighborhood oriented with support from cities and public safety agencies.