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1. How is the McKinney CERT program organized?

Interested volunteers organize neighborhood teams of 10 to 20 CERT members in specific geographic areas based on McKinney independent school district elementary school boundaries. There is a job for everyone in the CERT program based on an individual’s skills, abilities, interests and physical limitations.

2. In what other types of activities do McKinney CERT members participate?

CERT members can apply their skills during non-emergency activities such as city-sponsored community events and special projects.

3. What are the requirements to be a McKinney CERT responder?

• Attend all sessions in the nine-unit, eight-week Basic Training course
• Actively participate in ongoing emergency response activities, quarterly team training exercises and community events

4. What are the requirements to participate in the McKinney CERT basic training course?

In order to participate in the McKinney CERT Basic Training course, an individual must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Possess a valid drivers license
• Be able to perform physical activities within their own capabilities
• Be able to pass a background investigation
• Live or work in the City of McKinney

5. What is covered in the CERT Basic Training course?

• Unit 1: Disaster Preparedness
• Unit 2: Fire Safety
• Unit 3: Disaster Medical Operations Part 1
• Unit 4: Disaster Medical Operations Part 2
• Unit 5: Light Search and Rescue Operations
• Unit 6: CERT Organization
• Unit 7: Disaster Psychology
• Unit 8: Terrorism and CERT
• Unit 9: Course Review and Disaster Simulation

6. What is the McKinney Fire Department's role in the CERT program?

As the primary agency responsible for McKinney's Emergency Management and Preparedness, the McKinney Fire Department:

• Coordinates the CERT Program and provides overall direction and support services
• Assists in organizing neighborhood based CERT teams
• Conducts the 9-Unit CERT Basic Training course and provide quarterly hands-on training exercises and advanced classes on topics of interest to CERT members
• Provides opportunities for CERT members to participate in various activities that support the McKinney Fire Department and Office of Emergency Management