In major disasters or emergencies where people need help across a wide area, first responders can likely be delayed for some time when you need them. CERT teaches people to safely respond to emergencies, to search where people are likely injured and even dying, to save lives until they can get to definitive care. This FEMA national training program, managed by the Fire and Rescue Department, teaches you how to make yourselves and your communities more prepared for disaster by teaching you skills to provide life-saving care for victims. Graduation requirements: Trainees must attend at least 6 of 7 in-person sessions, and the Final Exercise in order to graduate. You must attend Med I, Med II, and LSAR, or make up those classes before you can graduate. 7 classes @ 3.5 hours each of lecture and hands-on practicals + 1 half-day disaster exercise at a different location. Text book and Backpack with basic response gear are provided. Certification: Upon completion of the course you will receive a CERT Basic Training certificate and Record of Training noting what your training included. You will be entered with Fairfax County CERT as a CERT-trained (Level - 2) member eligible to attend additional continuing education and advanced training for Free. In Fairfax County, approx 75 CERT-trained members have used CERT Basic Training as a kick off for new careers as EMTs, Fire Fighters, or Emergency Management.