The City of Renton is recruiting volunteers for the spring 2009 CERT academy.

CERT volunteers work with the fire department to better prepare the community to respond to disasters. CERT, which stands for Community Emergency Response Teams, is a nationwide all-hazards disaster preparedness program created by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. It is also part of the national Citizens Corps program, which increases preparedness through volunteerism.

The spring 2009 CERT academy is April 21-to May 14, with a disaster simulation on May 16. Classes are held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. CERT graduates receive 24 hours of training in fire suppression, search and rescue, first aid, disaster psychology and team organization. CERT trained individuals are able to work as part of a team in their neighborhood in order to meet the needs of residents after a disaster. Classes are taught by fire department personnel and local experts.

The academy, sponsored by the City of Renton Fire and Emergency Services Department is Tuesdays and Thursdays, April 21-May 14, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., and May 16, from 8 a.m to noon at Renton Technical College, 3000 N.E. Fourth St., Renton.