Do you know what to do when disaster strikes?

natural
Do you know what to do
When Disaster Strikes?
man-made

This brochure was provided by the Ware County Emergency Management Agency, through a Community Emergency Response Team grant.

Provided by your local emergency management agency.

Emergency Preparedness

Georgia is susceptible to all forms of natural and man-made disasters. A hazardous materials spill on a nearby highway could mean evacuation. A winter storm could confine your family at home. A tornado could cut off water, electricity or telephone service for days. When disaster strikes, you may not have much time to respond.
Prepare now. It could save not only your life, but the lives of your loved ones.
Things to Learn
What kind of disaster may affect my community?
How are residents warned about severe weather and other potential disasters?
What are the evacuation routes in my area?
What would be the effects of these disasters on my community?
Contact your local emergency management office to get information about the disasters that may impact you and how to prepare for them.

Develop a Family Disaster Plan
Gather information about hazards. Find out what types of severe weather could occur and learn your community s warning signals and evacuation plans.
Meet with your family to create a plan. Determine what to do when severe
weather threatens. Implement your plan. Post emergency
phone numbers; install safety features; inspect your home for hazards and correct them; learn basic safety measures; teach children how and when to call 9-1-1; and assemble a disaster supplies kit. Practice and maintain your plan.
Create a Disaster Supplies Kit Include ...
A 3-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day) and food that won t spoil.
One blanket or sleeping bag per person. A first aid kit. Prescription medicines.

Emergency tools, including a batterypowered National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio and a portable radio, flashlight and extra batteries.
An extra set of car keys and a credit card or cash.
Special items for infant, elderly or disabled family members.
After the Disaster
Monitor radio, NOAA Weather Radio or television for the latest updates and EAS messages.
Help anyone who is injured and trapped. Remember, don t move anyone who is seriously injured unless they are in imminent danger. Call for help, if necessary.
If you were evacuated, do not return home until advised by local authorities.
Watch for hazards such as low-level flooding, debris-filled streets, washed out roads, downed utility wires, snakes and poisonous insects.
Be aware that the risk of contaminated drinking water or utility disruptions could make re-entry extremely dangerous.
Use flashlights, not candles. Use emergency water supply or boil
water before drinking until authorities tell you the water is safe. Clean up hazardous materials or flammable liquids that may have spilled. Check for gas leaks. If you smell gas or hear a hissing noise, leave the building immediately. Do not turn on any appliances, switches, phones or flashlights. Look for sewage and water line leaks. If you suspect the sewage lines are damaged, avoid using the toilet and call a plumber. If water pipes are damaged, contact the water company and avoid tap water. Notify your insurance provider of any

losses and leave word where you can be contacted. Take pictures of the damage for insurance purposes. Document damage only after you are out of immediate danger and are told that you can return to your home. Make temporary repairs to protect property from further damage or looting. When purchasing materials, keep the receipts for insurance claims and income tax deductions. Use only reputable contractors; check the Better Business Bureau.
What is the Emergency Alert System?
The Emergency Alert System (EAS) lets officials instantly interrupt radio and TV broadcasts to provide emergency information in a crisis. It is also used by the National Weather Service (NWS) to alert the public to emergency weather information and dangerous conditions. EAS warnings also are transmitted on National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio.

Thunderstorms and Lightning

Floods/Flash Floods

Thunderstorms are one of the most common weather products of our atmosphere. They can create a dazzling display of light and sound, but do not underestimate these storms. They can cause serious injury, substantial property damage, even death. Dangers associated with thunderstorms include lightning, hail, heavy rain, flooding and strong winds. Thunderstorms are the first step in the creation of a tornado. They also can band together to form hurricanes.
Terms to Know
Severe Thunderstorm Watch: Conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms. Severe Thunderstorm Warning: Thunderstorms have been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property to those in the path of the storm.
Be Aware, Be Prepared Did you Know ...
A typical thunderstorm lasts 30 minutes. Thunderstorms can occur at any time, but
are most likely to occur in the afternoon and evening hours in the spring and summer.

The straight-line winds in a thunderstorm can exceed 100 mph and can be as damaging as a tornado.
Lightning can occur even when it is not raining.
Lightning causes an average of 93 deaths and 300 injuries in the United States each year.
What to Do During a Thunderstorm
Monitor radio, NOAA Weather Radio or television for the latest updates and EAS messages.
Postpone outdoor activity. If caught outside in a thunderstorm, take
shelter in a building or hardtop vehicle -- do not take shelter under isolated trees, in sheds, or in a convertible vehicle. Stay away from conductive objects, such as telephone lines, power lines, metal pipes and metal fences. If inside, avoid using the telephone or other electrical appliances.

There are several different kinds of flooding, three of which can occur in Georgia - river floods, coastal floods and urban floods. Most flash flooding is caused by rain from slowmoving thunderstorms, thunderstorms repeatedly moving over the same area, or heavy rains from hurricanes and tropical storms.
Terms to Know
Flash Flood or Flood Watch: Flash flooding or flooding is possible within the designated watch area. Flash Flood or Flood Warning: Flash flooding or flooding has been reported or is imminent. Seek higher ground.
Be Aware, Be Prepared Did you Know ...
Flash floods are the No. 1 weatherrelated killer in the United States.
Six inches of fast-moving water can knock a person off his or her feet.
Two feet of water can float a full-size automobile.
More than half of flood victims are in vehicles that moving water sweeps away.

What to Do During a Flood
Monitor radio, NOAA Weather Radio or television for the latest updates and EAS messages.
Know the flood risks in your community. If your home is subject to flooding, obtain
flood insurance. Turn around when you come to a flooded
area. Never drive through flooded roads;
evacuate a vehicle that is stalled in a flood area. In the event of a long-term flood event, store drinking water in sterilized bathtubs and other containers. Do not eat food that has come in contact with flood waters. Be aware of downed power lines or other utility disruptions.

Wildfires

Tornadoes

Atornado is a violently rotating column of air extending from a thunderstorm to the ground. Tornadoes are one of nature s

Tornado Warning: A tornado has been sighted or observed on radar.

most destructive forces. In Georgia, they can occur anywhere and at any time.

Be Aware, Be Prepared Did you Know ...

Know These Terms
Tornado Watch: Conditions are favorable for the development of a tornado.

Tornadoes can generate wind speeds of more than 250 mph.
A tornado s damage path can be more than a mile wide and 50 miles in length.

Tornadoes are most like-

FUJITA WIND DAMAGE SCALE

ly to occur between 3:00

p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

NO. WIND SPEED F-0 Up to 72 mph F-1 73 mph - 112 mph F-2 113 mph - 157 mph F-3 158 mph - 206 mph F-4 207 mph - 260 mph F-5 261 mph - 318 mph

DAMAGE
Light (chimney damage, tree branches broken)
Moderate (mobile homes pushed off foundation or overturned)
Considerable (mobile homes demolished, trees uprooted)
Severe (roofs and walls torn down, trains overturned, cars thrown)
Devastating (well-constructed walls leveled)
Incredible (homes lifted off foundation and carried considerable distances, autos thrown more than 100 yards)

What to Do
Monitor radio, NOAA Weather Radio or television for the latest updates and EAS messages. If a warning is issued or a tornado is imminent, move to a shelter such as a basement or interior hallway. If outside, seek shelter in a safe building, ditch or low area. Do not remain in, or take shelter in, mobile homes. Do not try to outrun a tornado in a vehicle or remain in a vehicle during a tornado take shelter in a ditch or low area.

More and more people are making their homes in woodland settings in or near forests, rural areas or remote mountain sites. There, homeowners enjoy the beauty of the environment, but face the very real danger of wildfires. Wildfires often begin unnoticed. They spread quickly and can change direction rapidly, igniting brush, trees and homes. Reduce your risk by preparing now, before wildfire strikes.
Terms to Know
Surface Fire: The most common type of wildfire, surface fires move slowly and burn along the forest floor, killing and damaging vegetation. Ground Fire: Usually started by lightning, ground fires burn on or below the forest floor through the root system. Crown Fire: Crown fires spread by wind moving quickly along the tops of trees. Fire Weather: A combination of weather conditions that favor the kindling and spread of forest or brush fires; typically, low humidity and a lack of recent precipitation. The key weather elements include, wind speed, temperature, and estimates of dead-fuel moisture.
About Burn Permits
Georgia law requires you to get a permit for most types of outdoor burning. To request a permit, call your local Georgia Forestry Commission office or visit www.gatrees.org to apply online. If conditions are favorable for burning, a permit will be granted. According to Georgia law, burning without a permit is a misdemeanor with fines up to $1,000.
Be Aware, Be Prepared Did you Know ...
80 percent of wildfires are caused by

people. Smoking in forested areas and improperly extinguishing campfires are two common causes of wildfire. Weather conditions can directly contribute to the occurrence of wildfires such as through lightning strikes or indirectly such as by an extended dry spell or drought that contributes to the availability of combustible fuel. Since 1960, over 4 million acres have been burned in wildfires each year in the United States.
What to Do
Report hazardous conditions that could cause a wildfire to your local fire department or forestry officials.
Design and landscape your home with wildfire safety in mind and create a 30- to 100-foot safety zone around your home.
Identify and maintain an adequate outside water source such as a small pond, cistern, well, swimming pool or hydrant.
Monitor radio, NOAA Weather Radio or television for the latest updates and EAS messages.
Follow the instructions of local officials. If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
Plan several escape routes away from your home by car and by foot.
Keep handy household items that can be used as fire tools: a rake, axe, handsaw or chainsaw, bucket and shovel.
You cannot outrun a wildfire. If you are caught by the fire, crouch in a pond or river and cover head and upper body with wet clothing. If water is not available, look for shelter in a cleared area or among a bed of rocks. Breathe the air closest to the ground.

Hurricanes

Ahurricane is a type of tropical cyclone - the general term for all circulating weather systems over tropical water. Because of its location, Georgia is vulnerable to severe tropical storms forming in both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30.
Terms to Know
Tropical Depression: An organized system of clouds and thunderstorms with a defined circulation and maximum sustained winds of 38 mph. Tropical Storm: An organized system of strong thunderstorms with a defined circulation and maximum sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph. Hurricane: An intense tropical weather system with a well-defined circulation and maximum sustained winds of 74 mph or higher. Storm Surge: A large dome of water topped by waves that sweeps across the coastline near where a hurricane makes landfall. Tropical Storm Watch: Tropical Storm conditions are possible within 36 hours. Tropical Storm Warning: Tropical Storm conditions are expected within 24 hours. Hurricane Watch: Hurricane conditions are possible in your area within 36 hours.

Hurricane Warning: Hurricane conditions are expected in your area within 24 hours. Complete all storm preparations and evacuate if directed by local officials.
Be Aware, Be Prepared Did you know ...
Coastal areas are subject to both high winds and deadly storm surge.
Inland areas also are vulnerable to high winds, as well as severe weather spawned by hurricanes, such as tornadoes.
The center, or eye, of a hurricane is relatively calm. The worst part of the storm will happen once the eye passes over and the winds blow from the opposite direction.
What to Do Before the Hurricane ...
Learn evacuation routes and prepare an evacuation plan.
Know low points, flooding history and hours necessary to evacuate in your area.
Review your insurance policies for protection against wind and flood damage.
Complete an inventory of personal

property for insurance settlements and tax deductions for losses. List descriptions and take pictures. Store important papers in waterproof containers. Buy items needed to board up windows and protect your home.
During a Hurricane Watch ...
Monitor radio, NOAA Weather Radio or television for the latest updates and EAS messages.
Fuel and service family vehicles. Inspect and secure manufactured housing
tie-downs. Complete preparation activities, such as
closing shutters or boarding up windows and tying down or bringing in objects such as lawn furniture and grills. Determine your evacuation destination, whether it be staying with family or friends or going to a hotel or official shelter.

During a Hurricane Warning ...
Follow instructions issued by local officials. Leave immediately if ordered to evacuate.
Sterilize bathtub and plastic containers and fill them with fresh drinking water.
Use the phone only for emergencies. Notify neighbors and a family member
outside of the warning area of your evacuation plans. Provide for pets. Some shelters may have facilities for pets. Shelters that provide for pets are listed on the Georgia Office of Homeland Security-Georgia Emergency Management Agency s Web site at www.ohs.state.ga.us. Also, arrangements for pets can be made in many hotels. Be alert for tornadoes during and after a hurricane. Fill boats with water to weigh them down and check mooring lines. Or, lash securely to trailer and use tie-downs to anchor trailer to the ground or house.

SAFFIR-SIMPSON HURRICANE SCALE

CATEGORY SUSTAINED DAMAGE WINDS

1

74-95

Minimal (No real damage to building structures. Unanchored

mobile homes, shrubbery and trees damaged. Also some

coastal road flooding and minor pier damage.)

2

96-110

Moderate (Some damage to roofs, doors and windows.

Considerable damage to vegetation, mobile homes and piers.)

3

111-130

Extensive (Some structural damage to small residences and

utility buildings. Mobile homes are destroyed. Flooding near

the coast destroys smaller structures with larger structures

damaged by floating debris.)

4

131-155

Extreme (Some complete roof failure on small residences.

Major erosion of beach areas. Major damage to lower floors of

structures near the shore.)

5

> 155

Catastrophic (Complete roof failure on many residences and

industrial buildings. Some complete building failures with small

utility buildings blown over or away.)

Nuclear Power Plants

There are two nuclear power plants in Georgia and four located near the state line. Nuclear power plants provide over 20 percent of the electricity used in Georgia.
How Nuclear Power Plants Work
Electricity is produced at these plants using the process of fission. Fission is the splitting of atoms into smaller parts. Some atoms split, or fission, when they are struck by even smaller particles, called neutrons. Each time this happens, more neutrons come out of the split atom and strike other atoms. This process of energy release is called a chain reaction. Nuclear power plants control the chain reaction to keep it from releasing too much energy too fast. This way, the chain reaction can go on for a long time.
Few natural elements have the unstable atoms that will fission in a chain reaction. Uranium, the heaviest natural element, works well. Uranium is a radioactive element found in natural ores and is the basic fuel of a nuclear reactor.

Are Nuclear Power Plants Safe?
The nuclear energy industry is one of the few industries with a security program regulated by the federal government. The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) determines and monitors security requirements at commercial nuclear power plants. Nuclear plants are built according to designs that meet NRC regulations. Owners are required to operate the plants according to approved specifications and abide by strict controls on changing the designs. Operations are closely monitored.
Because of their advanced design and sophisticated containment structures, U.S. nuclear plants emit a negligible amount of radiation. In fact, even if you lived right next door to a nuclear power plant, you would still receive less radiation each year than you would receive from the sun in just one round-trip flight from New York to Los Angeles.
However, local, state and federal officials work together to develop site-specific emergency response plans for nuclear power plant accidents in the unlikely event there is a

nuclear emergency. These plans are tested through regular exercises. Officials also develop plans that include an Emergency Planning Zone (EPZ) with a radius of 10 miles from the plant, and an Ingestion Planning Zone (IPZ) within a radius of 50 miles from the plant.
Terms to Know
Radiation: Energy released in the form of tiny particles or waves. Neutron radiation occurs when an atom splits. 1. Alpha radiation travels only a few inches in the air. It can be stopped by a sheet of paper. 2. Beta radiation, discharged from the nucleus of an atom, can be stopped by a thin sheet of metal. 3. Gamma radiation is caused by electromagnetic waves discharged from the nucleus of an unstable atom. It is basically the same as X-rays and can be stopped with lead or concrete. Radioactivity: Means giving off radiation. Radiation is a spontaneous emission of energy from the nuclei of atoms. It occurs naturally, but it is also a byproduct of the fission process. Uranium is radioactive, and ,when it splits, the atoms that are produced are also radioactive. Also, some metals that do not split when struck by a neutron will absorb the neutron and then become unstable or radioactive. Emergency Planning Zone: The area within a 10-mile radius of a nuclear power plant where actions such as evacuation or in-place sheltering may be required to protect the public. Ingestion Planning Zone: The area within a 50-mile radius of the plant where actions may be necessary to address possible radioactive contamination of crops, surface water and particularly to protect against milk contamination caused by ingestion of radioactive iodine by dairy cattle.
Be Aware, Be Prepared Did You Know ...
Emergency Classification Levels Preparedness for commercial nuclear power plants includes a system for notifying the public if a problem occurs at a plant. The emergency classification level of the problem is defined by the following four categories:

Notification of Unusual Event is the least serious of the four levels. The event poses no threat to you or to plant employees, but emergency officials are notified. No action by the public is necessary. Alert is declared when an event has occurred that could reduce the plant s level of safety, but backup plant systems still work. Emergency agencies are notified and kept informed, but no action by the public is necessary. Site Area Emergency is declared when an event involving major problems with the plant s safety systems has progressed to the point that a release of some radioactivity into the air or water is possible, but not expected to exceed Environmental Protection Agency Protective Action Guidelines beyond the site boundary. Thus, no action by the public is necessary. General Emergency is the most serious of the four classifications and is declared when an event at the plant has caused a loss of safety systems. If such an event occurs, radiation could be released that would travel beyond the site boundary. State and local authorities will take action to protect the residents living near the plant. People in the affected areas could be advised to evacuate promptly or, in some situations, to shelter in place.
What to Do If an Alert is Declared ...
Monitor radio, NOAA Weather Radio or television for the latest updates and EAS messages.
Do not call 9-1-1 about the Alert. Special rumor control numbers and information will be provided over radio, television or NOAA Weather Radio.
Go indoors and close all windows, doors, chimney dampers and other sources of outside air, if advised.
Follow instructions issued by local officials. Leave immediately if ordered to evacuate.

Terrorism

Terrorism is the unlawful use of force or violence against persons or property to intimidate or coerce a government or the civilian population to further political or social objectives. Each day, terrorists are working to obtain chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive weapons. However, local, state and federal agencies are working to strengthen our nation s security. Whenever possible, we want to stop terrorist attacks before they happen. All Americans should begin to learn about potential threats so we are better prepared to react during an attack.
Terms to Know
Agro-terrorism: Agro-terrorism is the malicious use of plant or animal pathogens to cause devastating disease in our crops and livestock. Such an attack could inflict significant economic damage; instill fear in consumers and lower confidence in U.S. safety. Biological Threat: A biological attack is the deliberate release of germs or other biological substances that can make you sick. Many agents must be inhaled, enter through a cut in

the skin or be eaten to make you sick. Some biological agents, such as anthrax, do not cause contagious diseases. Others, like the smallpox virus, can result in diseases you can catch from other people. CBRNE: The acronym for the types of threats that may occur chemical, biological, radioactive, nuclear and explosives. Chemical Threat: A chemical attack is the deliberate release of a toxic gas, liquid or solid that can poison people and the environment. Counterterrorism: Measures used to prevent preempt or retaliate against terrorist attacks. Cyber-terrorism: Attacks on computer networks or systems, generally by hackers working with or for terrorist groups. Some forms of cyber-terrorism include denial of service attacks, inserting viruses or stealing data. Eco-terrorism: Sabotage intended to hinder activities that are considered damaging to the environment. Explosive Threat: An explosive threat is one of most commonly used terrorist tactics used. These include car bombs, pipe bombs, package bombs or mixture of chemicals to develop a bomb.

Radiation Threat: A radiation threat, commonly referred to as a dirty bomb or radiological dispersion device (RDD), is the use of common explosives to spread radioactive materials over a targeted area. It is not a nuclear blast. The force of the explosion and radioactive contamination will be more localized. While the blast will be immediately obvious, the presence of radiation will not be clearly defined until trained personnel with specialized equipment are on the scene.
Be Aware, Be Prepared Did You Know ...
Terrorism has been around as a major political and religious tactic against governments as long as recorded history.
The word terrorism traces its roots in the English language to the French Revolution (1789-1795), when British statesman Edmund Burke used the term to describe the actions of the Jacobin-dominated French government.
Before the September 11, 2001, attacks in New York and the Pentagon, most terrorist incidents in the U.S. have been bombing attacks involving detonated and undetonated explosive devices, tear gas, and pipe and fire bombs.
Most terrorist incidents in the U.S. have involved small extremist groups that use terrorism to achieve a designated objective. Local, state and federal law enforcement officials monitor suspected terrorist groups and try to prevent or protect against a suspected attack. In addition, the U.S. government works with other countries to limit the sources of support for terrorism.
What to Do During Your Travels . . .
Before visiting a foreign country, research the safety and political nature of the country, specifically against Americans.
Leave a detailed itinerary of your trip with a trusted friend or loved one.
Do not bring unnecessary attention to yourself, such as wearing patriotic
symbols or clothing, expensive jewelry that

may make you a target. Be alert and aware of your surroundings
and any conspicuous or unusual behavior. Do not accept packages from strangers.
Do not leave your luggage unattended. Learn where emergency exits and
staircases are located. Think ahead about how to evacuate a building, subway or congested public area in a hurry. Be aware of heavy or breakable objects nearby that could move, fall or break in an explosion.
If There is a Terrorism Incident . . .
Follow the advice of local emergency officials.
Take immediate action to get away from danger (chemicals, explosions, falling debris, etc.).
Check for injuries if a disaster occurs near you. Give first aid and get help for seriously injured people.
Monitor radio, NOAA Weather Radio or television for the latest updates and EAS messages, including what the signs and symptoms of the disease or sickness are, if medications or vaccinations are being distributed, and where you should seek medical attention if you become sick.
Confine or secure your pets. Call your family contact do not use the
telephone again unless it is a life-threatening emergency. Check on your neighbors, especially those who are elderly or disabled.
If You Think You Have Been Exposed to a Biological Agent . . .
Monitor radio, NOAA Weather Radio or television for the latest updates and EAS messages, including what the signs and symptoms are, if medications or vaccinations are being distributed and where you should seek medical attention if you become sick.
At the time of the declared biological emergency, if a family member becomes sick, it is important to become suspicious.
Symptoms of many common illnesses are often similar (fever, nausea, fatigue,

headache, etc.). Do not automatically assume you should
go to the hospital emergency room or that any illness is the result of a biological attack. Use common sense, practice good hygiene and cleanliness to avoid spreading germs.
If You Think You Have Been Exposed to a Chemical ...
If your eyes are watering, your skin is stinging, and you are having trouble breathing, you may have been exposed to a chemical.
If you think you may have been exposed to a chemical, take your clothes off immediately and wash as soon as possible.
Look for a hose, fountain, or any source of water, and wash with soap if possible, being sure not to scrub the chemical into your skin.
Seek emergency medical attention.
If There is a Radiation Threat or "Dirty Bomb" ...
If you are outside and there is an explosion or authorities warn of a radiation release nearby, cover your

nose and mouth and quickly go inside a building that has not been damaged. If you are already inside, check to see if your building has been damaged. If your building is stable, stay where you are. Close windows and doors and turn off air conditioners, heaters or other ventilation systems. If you are inside and there is an explosion near where you are or you are warned of a radiation release inside, cover nose and mouth and go outside immediately. Look for a building or other shelter that has not been damaged and quickly get inside. Once you are inside, close windows and doors; turn off air conditioners, heaters or other ventilation systems. If you think you have been exposed to radiation, take off your clothes and wash as soon as possible. Monitor radio, NOAA Weather Radio or television for the latest updates and EAS messages.

National Terrorism Alerts
SEVERE
Credible intelligence indicates there is a high risk of a terrorist attack and a specific target has been identified or a terrorist attack has occurred.
Citizens are Advised to:
Remain calm Put family disaster plan into action, if necessary Monitor radio, NOAA Weather Radio or television for the latest updates and EAS messages. If you are not in immediate danger, remain at your location until advised to evacuate.
HIGH
Credible intelligence indicates there is a high risk of a local terrorist attack, but a specific target has not been identified.
Citizens are Advised to:
Expect delays, baggage searches and restrictions as a result of heightened security at public buildings.
Monitor world and local events.
ELEVATED
Elevated risk of a terrorist attack, but a specific target has not been identified.
Citizens are Advised to:
Report suspicious activities at or near critical facilities to law enforcement. Take a first aid or emergency response class.
GUARDED
General risk with no credible threat to a specific target.
Citizens are Advised to:
Watch for suspicious activity and report criminal activity to local law enforcement.
Review your family disaster plan
LOW
Low risk of terrorism.
Citizens are Advised to:
Continue to enjoy your freedom. Develop a family disaster plan and emergency supplies kit. Know what natural hazards are in your area and how to protect
your family.

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)

After a catastrophic disaster, blocked roads, downed communication lines and the sheer number of the injured may overwhelm emergency services and prevent first responders from immediately reaching all victims. Knowing basic survival and rescue skills will help people survive until help arrives. The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program educates people about disaster preparedness and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, and disaster medical operations. Using their training, CERT volunteers can assist others in their neighborhood or workplace following an event and can take a more active role in preparing their community.
Terms to Know
Train-the-Trainer (TTT) Course: Firefighters, emergency medical service, law enforcement and emergency management personnel are eligible to take a 36-hour course that will enable them to train people in their community to become CERT volunteers. Moulage: Realistic make-up of injuries for casualty simulation during exercises. Casualty simulation provides the experience CERT volunteers need to make quick assessments of injuries.

Be Aware, Be Prepared Did You Know ...
CERT was created by the City of Los Angeles Fire Department in 1987.
CERTs have proven to be an active and vital part of communities preparedness and response capability. For example, CERTs have been used to: - Distribute and/or install smoke alarms and batteries to the elderly and disabled. - Assist with evacuations and traffic control. - Promote community awareness of potential hazards and preparedness measures. - Supplement staffing at special events, such as parades.
What to Do
To become an official CERT trainer in Georgia, eligible participants must complete a OHS-GEMA-approved TTT course or a 36-hour TTT course sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency s Emergency Management Institute.
To become active in CERT, citizens should contact their local emergency management agency for program availability and training schedules.