North Haven is in the process of developing a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and is running a free training program to enable those interested to take responsibility and be prepared for emergency situations, and assist emergency responders should a major event occur.

The training curriculum covers topics such as disaster preparedness, fire safety, disaster medical operations, light search and rescue, and others. The course also includes specialized training in activities related to shelter operations in a major emergency.

Graduates of the program who qualify will be issued CERT identification and a backpack with basic equipment. Those people will be able to assist in sheltering of pets and people, support other emergency responders should they be called upon, and may be used in establishing a local shelter for evacuees if a major emergency occurs.

The course will be offered during five consecutive Saturdays in late 2017 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Classes will be held at the Northeast Fire Station located at 366 Washington Avenue, and all classes in the course must be completed.

Residents interested in training, further information, and registration can send an email to Fire Chief Paul Januszewski at firechief@town.north-haven.ct.us.