The City of Renton is actively recruiting volunteers to be part of the city’s Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT).

CERT 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 to increase preparedness through volunteerism. CERT volunteers work with the fire department to better prepare the community to respond to disasters.

The Spring 2013 CERT Academy is scheduled for 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays from April 24 through June 8 at the City of Renton Fire Station 14, 1900 Lind Ave. SW.

Registration is now open for this session. CERT graduates receive 24 hours of training in fire suppression, search and rescue, first aid, disaster psychology and team organization, and participate in a disaster simulation on June 8.

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.

According to Emergency Management Director Deborah Needham, “Emergency volunteers play a critical role in disaster response. They are the first ones on scene over 90 percent of the time.”

Classes are taught by fire and police department personnel and local experts.

The cost is $25 for Renton residents and $30 for non-residents. To register go to rentonwa.gov, click on the recreation division and then on cybersignup.org or call 425-430-6700.