Orland Township to offer Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program

Orland Township is proud to introduce the launch of its Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program, an initiative designed to prepare residents to support themselves and their neighbors in times of emergency, Township officials said Tuesday.

By educating community members on disaster preparedness and response, CERT volunteers become critical assets, helping to enhance local emergency readiness and build community resilience.

CERT is a program for residents interested in learning how to assist during emergencies and extreme weather situations and is offered by many local governments. The Orland Fire Protection District (OFPD) has offered extensive CERT training in the past.

Orland Township serves Orland Park, Orland Hills and Tinley Park, while the OFPD serves Orland Park, unicorporated Orland Park, and Orland Hills.

Why CERT is Important in Orland Township?

With a population nearing 100,000, Orland Township stands to gain immensely from the CERT program, which brings several key benefits:

- Trained Volunteers: A dedicated group of residents ready to assist during local disasters and community events.
- Emergency Readiness: Volunteers provide essential support when first responders are overwhelmed or during large-scale emergencies.
- Community Engagement: Strengthens relationships within the community, fostering a collective commitment to safety and preparedness.
- Assistance for Vulnerable Populations: Volunteers can perform wellness checks and help manage resources to support those most at risk during emergencies.

Support from Cook County EMRS

The success of the Orland Township CERT program is made possible through a partnership with Cook County Emergency Management and Regional Security (EMRS). They will assist with:

- Training Delivery: Cook County EMRS will provide a comprehensive 21-hour Basic CERT curriculum, which includes a two-hour final exercise.
- Instructor & Logistics Support: Help with the planning and execution of training sessions.
- Administrative Coordination: Collaboration with local leaders to ensure the effective launch and operation of the CERT program.

Training Class Details

Our first training class is scheduled for September and will be structured as follows:

- Schedule: One evening per week for eight weeks, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
- Meals: Dinner will be provided at each class to ensure participants stay energized.
- Eligibility: The program is open to individuals 18 years and older who either live or work in Orland Township.
- Volunteer Opportunities: Graduates will be offered volunteer roles within the CERT group, including opportunities to assist with traffic control, community events, and emergency deployments.

Engagement Opportunities for CERT Members

After completing the training, CERT members will have access to several ways to stay involved:

- Volunteer Roles: Participants can assist at local events, engage in emergency drills, and participate in outreach efforts aimed at enhancing community preparedness.
- Regional Collaboration: CERT members will have the opportunity to collaborate with other CERT teams across Cook County during large-scale emergencies and regional events.
- Advanced Training: Active CERT members may be eligible for specialized training opportunities provided by Cook County EMRS.

This program is an invaluable opportunity to help ensure the safety and well-being of Orland Township residents. By joining CERT, you’ll play an essential role in building a stronger, more prepared community.

The Community Emergency Response Team program trains residents to support their neighbors during emergencies and local events. Registration is required, and spots are filling up fast!

Next training begins Thursday, Sept. 18 at 6 PM

- One night a week for 8 weeks
- Dinner included
- Open to anyone 18+ who lives or works in Orland Township
- Get certified
- Learn hands-on emergency skills
- Volunteer with local and county-wide response teams

CLICK HERE to enroll in the Orland Township CERT Program or contact Orland Township Trustee Ken Duffy Sr. by email at [email protected] for more information.