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The Bonita Springs Fire Control and Rescue District recognizes the need to be able to incorporate and utilize volunteer help during certain emergency or disaster situations. Bonita Springs Fire-Rescue has taken a pro-active stance in this area by training citizens to be part of a CERT.

The CERT Program provides education about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact Bonita Springs and trains citizens in basic disaster response skills. Using the training learned in the classroom and during exercises, CERT members can be called upon to assist others in their neighborhood or workplace following an event when professional responders are not immediately available to help. CERT members are capable of supporting emergency response agencies by taking a more active role in emergency preparedness projects in their community.

CERT graduates will be better prepared to respond and cope with the aftermath of natural or manmade disasters. Neighborhood groups receiving CERT training will become a team that can develop plans to help themselves and other residents when a disaster strikes. Topics such as Introduction to Disasters, Disaster Medical Care, Fire Suppression, Search and Rescue and Disaster Planning will be taught to all who attend.

Members can provide crucial support and direction to their development or neighborhood. CERT members are encouraged, but not obligated to use their training, skills, and equipment in disaster situations or to assist their friends and family while awaiting the arrival of trained professional emergency responders.

The Bonita Springs Fire-Rescue CERT program is designed to support and integrate into disaster plans. The CERT program is intended to be a partnership between the District and local neighborhoods or communities that will ultimately reduce death, injury and property loss caused by major disasters.

Classes are taught at Bonita Springs Fire Station Four at 27701 Bonita Grande Drive from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Members may miss any amount of classes that is needed, but are required to make-up the classes at their earliest convenience before they are eligible to be called-out to an emergency scene. There is no cost and there is no physical or age limitations.

VISIT LEE COUNTY'S CERT WEBSITE AT WWW.LEECERT.ORG

Nicole Hornberger, CERT Coordinator

Office Hours: Monday-Friday

8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

(239) 949-6228-Office          (239) 949-6272-Fax