Learn to Prepare for Unexpected Emergencies, Natural Disasters by Attending Training Classes at Somerset County’s CERT Program

(For Immediate Release – Somerset County, NJ): The best time to prepare for emergencies and disasters are before they occur. That’s why the Somerset County Office of Emergency Management is hosting a free training program for residents interested in learning about emergency and disaster preparedness.

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Basic Course Program educates and trains residents to be prepared to perform basic activities and understand different topics such as disaster preparedness, disaster psychology, the importance of Incident Command System (ICS), fire safety and utility controls as well as other topics.

“When first responders are not immediately available during an emergency situation, local CERT teams are trained to provide support and guidance within their respective communities,” said Director Shanel Y. Robinson, liaison to the Somerset County Office of Emergency Management. “By staying proactive and prepared for emergencies and disasters, residents can significantly lighten the burden of first responders that may need to prioritize time-sensitive and life-saving tasks.”

Many disasters can create barriers that delay the response time of first responders attempting to render aid. The CERT Basic Course Program, which is taught by emergency service professionals, provides classroom instruction and simulation exercises that educate residents on staying safe, protecting others, and being self-reliant prior to first responders arriving.

This year, residents can learn how to help themselves, their families, and their community by signing up for the 2026 Fall CERT Basic Training Course. The training program consists of seven mandatory classes between September and October, and is held at the Somerset County Emergency Services Training Academy, located at 402 Roycefield Road in Hillsborough.

The scheduled class dates and times can be found below:

• September 23, 2026 – 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• September 27, 2026 – 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• September 30, 2026 – 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• October 6, 2026 – 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• October 13, 2026 – 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• October 20, 2026 – 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• October 25, 2026 – 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information on registering for the 2026 Fall CERT Basic Training Course, visit: https://www.somersetcountynj.gov/government/public-health-safety/emergency-management/cert-volunteers.

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About Somerset County

The County of Somerset is committed to excellence and innovation in public service, promoting the well-being of all residents and communities by providing effective, efficient, and responsive leadership.

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