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, which helps increase preparedness through volunteerism.

CERT volunteers work with the fire department to better prepare the community to respond to disasters.

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

The following class is currently being offered by the City of Renton:

• Fall 2013 CERT Academy: 6 to 9 p.m., Tuesdays, Oct. 1 through Nov. 12, City of Renton Fire Station 14, 1900 Lind Avenue SW, Renton.

The fall 2013 CERT Academy will begin on Oct 1 and 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 Nov. 16.

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 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.

For more information about CERT contact Mindi Mattson at 425-430-7041.