The Benton County Sheriff’s Office and Corvallis Community Emergency Response Team are offering free emergency preparedness training to area residents next month.
The comprehensive CERT training course combines 12 hours of online learning with two full days of hands-on instruction scheduled for Oct. 11-12 at the Corvallis Fire Training Center. Sessions run 8 a.m.-4 p.m. both days.
Participants will learn essential emergency skills including disaster preparedness, fire safety, medical operations, search and rescue techniques, and disaster psychology. The training covers local hazards and prepares residents to assist during emergencies in their communities.
The program is open to adults 18 and older with youth able to participate if accompanied by a parent or guardian. Training is conducted by experienced local responders, state-certified instructors and expert volunteers in an inclusive environment welcoming people of all abilities and backgrounds.
While volunteering after completing the training is encouraged, it remains optional. The course is completely free of charge.
Registration is available online. For more information, contact Sierra Anderson at sierra.anderson@corvallisoregon.gov or 541-221-7957.