Community Emergency Response Teams (CERTs) are sprouting up in most communities across the United States. The purpose of these groups, funded by federal and state governments, is to mobilize a trained group of volunteers in emergencies, due to natural, man-made or other disasters. They’re under the leadership and control of the Emergency Management Agency, and they can be called upon by police and fire departments for help.

The Columbiana County Emergency Management Agency in Ohio received a $6,650 federal grant to go towards to training and giving equipment to its CERT group for use in emergencies. However, Director Darren Dodson wants to use some of the money to train crime watch volunteers.

Dodson said crime watch organizations appear to be on the rise, and the skills it takes to participate in such an organization are similar to those employed by members of CERT – Community Emergency Response Team – the volunteer group of emergency responders formed several years ago by the EMA.

Dodson’s statements seem to imply a connection between emergency preparedness and personal or family protection. In addition to preparing for emergencies, you have to think carefully about how you plan to protect yourself and your family in the event of civil unrest as a result of an emergency. A neighborhood crime watch is a great tool, but you first have to plan for keeping your own home safe.

Source:

http://www.salemnews.net/page/content.detail/id/520401.html?nav=5007