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The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program educates community members about disaster preparedness and provides hands-on training in essential response skills such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations.
Using these skills, CERT members are prepared to assist neighbors and coworkers when professional responders may be delayed. They also support local emergency response agencies by contributing to preparedness projects in the community.
During a large-scale disaster, emergency services may be overwhelmed. In some cases, it could take up to 72 hours before help arrives. CERT training gives you the tools and confidence to protect yourself, your family, and your community until professional responders are available.
Cambria CERT is a partnership supported by the Cambria Fire Department, SLO County Fire Chiefs Association, County of San Luis Obispo Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and the Cambria Community Healthcare District.
→ CERT is designed for:
→ Families and individuals
→ Business owners and employees
→ Neighborhood groups
→ Anyone interested in supporting community response
CERT training is for everyone—but those who wish to take it further can join Cambria CERT a team organized to assist the community in emergencies.
As a CERT volunteer, you’ll learn how to:
→ Shut off utilities safely
→ Use firefighting skills to suppress small fires
→ Provide medical aid in a disaster
→ Recognize hazardous materials and terrorism indicators
→ Conduct light search and rescue operations
→ Build self-reliance and strengthen neighborhood response CERT members also gain access to a communications network that provides emergency updates when traditional systems are down. Volunteers regularly train together and put their skills into action, supporting community safety.
The CERT concept began with the Los Angeles Fire Department and was adopted countywide in 2003 to prepare Central Coast communities. The goal remains the same: to help every community become more self-sufficient by building skilled, multi-functional teams ready to respond when disaster strikes.
Training and Volunteer Opportunities are available throughout San Luis Obispo County.
In 2026, we'll look forward to expanding our programs to include more communities.
Subscribe to our newsletter or contact us to be updated on our training schedule, volunteer opportunities, and other updates!
Serving the Atascadero Community
Serving the Cambria Community
A Paso Robles CERT Program
Serving Los Osos, Morro Bay & Cayucos
Serving the El Paso de Robles Community
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