FAQ

Any teen in Santa Clara County from the age 13-18 are eliagable to join Teen CERT.

Our supporting staff help run the Teen CERT program, while the Teen CERT board is run by the Teen CERT members, who plan and coordinate meetings, collaborate with other organizations and school chapter clubs, and host events. 

No experience is needed to join Teen CERT!

The Teen CERT program can help teens develop skills in leadership and teamwork. The program also increases emergency readiness at home and school. Those who need service hours to graduate from high school can receive community service hours, and this program is a great pathway for careers in healthcare, emergency services, or public safety.

Absolutely. Participation in the Teen CERT board demonstrates initiative, responsibility, and community involvement—qualities valued by colleges and employers. In addition, many of our Teen CERTs have gotten into good colleges and are pursuing careers in healthcare.

It's as simple as sending us an email letting us know that you are interested in joining the board. Once we receive your email, we will follow up with more details.

The board does a lot of different things such as event planning, communication and outreach of the program, support trainings (academies, CPR/AED, first aid, and Stop the Bleed). They also essentially help run the Teen CERT program. 

Our Teen CERT academy is a three-day event, which includes 20 hours of hands-on and classroom learning. 

Disaster Preparedness

The CERT Organization

Disaster Medical Operations Part 1

Disaster Medical Operations Part 2

Disaster Psychology

Fire Safety and Utility Control

Light Search and Rescue

Terrorism and CERT

Radio Communications 

There is no cost to join! All materials you will need will be provided to you during the academy.

There is no required number of events that you need to attend to be a Teen CERT, however, it's recommended that you attend events throughout the year. 

No, however, we offer continued education, refresher training, and community exercises. The best way to practice your skills is to come to events and training! 

Yes! You will become a California Disaster Service worker (DSW). We often have CPR/AED, first aid and Stop the Bleed training, for which you can also receive certifications.