Frequently Asked Questions
Since it's inception in 1997, almost 1000 Newark residents have been certified in the CERT program. CERT is designed to help you and your family be better prepared in the event of a disaster. Earthquakes Happen! And with current world issues, it is even more important that you and your family are better prepared to survive when disaster strikes.
To learn more about the program, the list below answers some of the most frequently asked questions about Newark's CERT program. After reading through the questions and answers below it is hoped that you will join our CERT members to top the 1000 mark and give Newark one of the highest percentages of trained citizens in the area.
-
How much does the CERT program cost?
-
When is the program offered?
-
How long is the class and where is it held?
-
Who teaches the classes?
-
What do I get when I graduate?
-
After I graduate, then what?
-
Do I have to stay involved?
-
What are Districts, and why does Newark have 9?
-
Who and what are Team Leaders?
-
In the event of a large disaster, what am I expected to do?
-
Why would I need to help others, doesn't the police and fire department do that?
-
How do I sign up?
-
Do I need any special skills to join?
- Can I bring my children?
How much does the CERT program cost?
The program is FREE! The only cost incurred may be in upgrading your own personal disaster kits at home. (Food, water, tools etc.)
When is the program offered?
We offer two 6-week classes. One in the Spring and one in the Fall.
How long is the class and where is it held?
The classes are held from 6:00 - 9:00 pm . They are held one night a week for 5 consecutive weeks. (Ex. 5 straight Thursday nights). The first 5 classes are classroom style and the final class is a hands on drill held either at Fire Station 27 (Cherry and Mowry) or at the Union City CERT facility located behind ACFD Fire Station 31.
Who teaches the classes?
The classes are taught by trained instructors and Fire Department personnel. Two instructors per class.
What do I get when I graduate?
Every participant will have a downloaded student manual filled with disaster tips and vital information for rescue, fire suppression and general first aid. Upon completion of the 6-week course you will also receive a helmet, vest, backpack and ID badge along with a certificate of completion.
After I graduate, then what?
For starters, and most importantly you will have the training that will make you better prepared in the event of a true disaster. You also will be encouraged to attend refresher drills throughout the year.
Do I have to stay involved?
This is entirely up to you. We do offer 1 or 2 re-training classes on various skills as well the annual refresher drill.
What are Districts, and why does Newark have 9?
Although the designated meeting place is now divided by Fire Department, to help with the span of control it was necessary to break the city down into more manageable groups. It seemed most likely to use the school boundaries, which most people are already familiar with. Our districts match the 8 public elementary schools and our 9th district is Newark Memorial High School , which is everything south of Mowry Ave. There is a Team Leader for each district.
Who and what are Team Leaders?
Team Leaders are a special group of volunteers who have completed the program and wanted to become more involved. They participate in the meetings; they help new members and are the contact person for communicating information to the Newark EOC (Emergency Operations Center). Team Leaders also undergo additional required training through FEMA and are required to have an FCC issues HAM license.
Back to Top
In the event of a large disaster, what am I expected to do?
First and foremost you are to take care of your immediate family. This is what you have gone through the class for. You will be prepared and know what to do to survive the next 72 hours. If your family is safe you can then go out into your neighborhood and assist neighbors. If everything is under control in your neighborhood you may then want to assist in the citywide efforts. (I.e. shelters, etc.)
Why would I need to help others, wouldn't the police and fire department do that?
In a large disaster, police and fire departments will be overwhelmed with large scale emergencies. This is why this program is so crucial.
How do I sign up?
You can sign up by going to the Class Sign-Up page, by e-mailing info@newarkcert.org with your name, address and phone number or by calling the Newark CERT Admin (510) 221-6220 or Information Hotline (510) 972-3695 and leaving your name and number so someone can get back to you. You can also stop by our booth at various Newark functions (e.g. Summerfest, Newark Days, Farmers Market).
Do I need any special skills to join?
No, just the willingness to learn the skills necessary to survive a disaster. We have had participants ranging in age from 14 to 80 and some even in wheelchairs. We say come one come all.
Can I bring my children?
If they are under the age of 14 they may not attend. This is discouraged for two reasons: the material covered is not suitable for younger children; and two it is very difficult to deliver all of the required information if there are constant interruptions. We do, however accept young adults between the ages of 14-17 if accompanied by a parent/guardian.
