Asheville Fire Department Starts Emergency Response Team

This week, the Asheville Fire Department (AFD) launched its Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). The CERT Program provides community members with practical skills to help their community during an emergency when first responders may be delayed or overwhelmed. The program follows national CERT standards while incorporating Asheville-specific needs and hazards, including flooding, severe weather, wildfire, and community support operations. 

What CERT Members Are Trained To Do:

• CERT members are trained to operate safely within defined limits. 

• Disaster preparedness and hazard awareness 

• Fire extinguisher use and small fire safety 

• Light search and rescue (non-structural collapse) 

• Basic disaster medical operations (triage and treatment area setup) 

• Team organization and accountability 

• Personal and family preparedness planning 

Who Can Join?

• Asheville community members (18+) 

• No prior experience required 

• Participants must complete CERT basic training 

• Online Classroom and Hands-On Training Day 

• Must agree to follow AFD activation and safety protocols 

• Participants are subject to a background check 

For more information, or to apply, visit our CERT  webpage here.