Kapolei HS-Health Careers Academy

Community Emergency Response Team Training

The FEMA Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program is a nationally recognized training that teaches individuals how to prepare for and respond to emergencies and disasters in their communities. Through hands-on instruction in fire safety, search and rescue, disaster medical operations, and incident command, participants gain practical skills that can save lives and reduce harm during critical situations. The program emphasizes teamwork, leadership, and communication—skills that are essential not only in emergencies but also in everyday life and professional settings.

Kapolei High School Health Careers Academy seniors participated in the CERT training as part of their commitment to becoming well-rounded and community-minded healthcare professionals. By engaging in this rigorous program, students not only enhanced their emergency response knowledge but also demonstrated their dedication to public safety and community service. This experience supports the academy’s goal of preparing students to lead with confidence, compassion, and competence in healthcare and beyond.

The Kapolei High School Health Careers Academy seniors’ CERT Training was made possible through the generous support of the City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Emergency Management. Over three full days, DEM personnel led comprehensive classroom instruction and hands‑on skills practice, covering essential topics such as fire suppression techniques, search and rescue procedures, disaster medical operations, and incident command systems.

On the fourth day, students put theory into practice by participating in realistic mock disaster drills—simulating mass‑casualty incidents and structural collapse scenarios. This immersive, daylong exercise allowed students to coordinate response efforts, triage victims, communicate under pressure, and adapt to evolving situations in real time—all under the guidance of experienced emergency management professionals.

We extend our deepest gratitude to the City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Emergency Management for their invaluable support in providing this CERT training opportunity. Their time, expertise, and commitment to youth preparedness made it possible for our Health Careers Academy seniors to gain life-saving skills and firsthand experience in emergency response. Mahalo for investing in the future of our students and empowering them to become capable, confident leaders in times of crisis.

Learn more about CERT Training at https://www.honolulu.gov/dem/get-trained/