Since 2007, CERT, a volunteer organization, has operated under the direction of the Town of Fairfield Emergency Management Director who is also the Fire Chief. CERT trains volunteers to help the Town in emergencies or disasters using FEMA guidelines and a curriculum adopted by the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection.
One example of what CERT does is holding drills such as the recent one on Sunday, August 23, 2015 where members, under the direction of Fire Chief Richard Felner and Deputy Fire Chief Kyran Dunn, inventoried supplies needed by the Town in the event an emergency shelter is required. In past events, including Super Storm Sandy, Fairfield CERT along with the Fairfield Health Department and Medical Reserve Corps provided leadership and staff for the Fairfield Shelter which operated out of Fairfield Ludlowe High School. CERT member’s familiarity with the equipment needs of the shelter facilitated the inventory and survey of the condition of the items. Members of the Stratfield and Southport Volunteer Fire Departments also taught CERT how to erect an emergency light tower and tent as part of the drill on August 23rd.
To receive information about Fairfield CERT or if you are interested in receiving training, please contact Norma Peterson, Fairfield CERT Liaison, at NJP1061@optonline.net or 203-255-3554.
PHOTO: First Selectman Mike Tetreau and Fairfield CERT Liaison Norma Peterson.