Volunteers help out when first-responders can't

He asks volunteers to think about what is unthinkable to many: What happens if you call 9-1-1 and nobody answers or the line is busy for hours following an emergency, such as a hazardous waste spill, train wreck, major flood, flu pandemic or other critical episode?

Bill Kerr, a retired U.S. Army sergeant, coordinates Green Valley’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), a group dedicated to helping the Green Valley area and individuals prepare for and deal with emergencies before first responders, such as the fire and sheriff’s department and others are able to arrive.

“In 95 percent of all emergencies, the victim or bystander provides the first immediate assistance on the scene,” according to the Department of Homeland Security in the information it provides to CERT volunteers nationwide.

CERT, which has trained 335 volunteers locally since its start-up here in 2003, was created by the federal government after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks to encourage Americans to get prepared for all types of emergencies and receive the training to do so to help themselves and others. CERT has chapters across the country and conducts regular training classes as well as periodic updates, such at the Sept. 26 local exercise on flu preparedness.

“We advocate that people be prepared to take care of themselves with no government services for a minimum of 72 hours, which is about as long as it takes to mobilize these services and get them to you,” Kerr said.

“We are trying to teach people what they need to do to be prepared for emergencies. If they have the knowledge and take action, they won’t be devastated when it happens. We urge everyone to chart a plan on what they can do in an emergency and we have lots of information to help them,” he said.

For those interested in becoming CERT volunteers, fall classes start Oct. 15, at the Green Valley Fire District Administration Building, 1285 W. Camino Encanto. Classes, which are free, run for two and one half hours, starting at 6 p.m., for eight weeks on Thursday nights.

Classes are taught by Kerr, registered nurses and Green Valley fire captains and firefighters covering topics which include disaster preparedness, fire suppression, disaster medical aid, search and rescue, disaster psychology and team organization, terrorism and disaster preparedness drills.

Kerr describes the classes as “challenging and very hands-on.”

” There are no tests involved and students are not placed in hazardous situations. Class participation is encouraged and those who have prior experience, such as doctors, nurses, law enforcement and military personnel, are encouraged to share their experiences and insight,” he said.

Hands-on instruction covers first aid, splintering, dealing with bleeding and breathing problems, stabilization for shock, opening an airway, using a fire extinguisher, turning off utilities, setting up centers for rehabilitation and rest, immunization clinics, evacuating neighborhoods, and helping victims deal with stress and displacement.

Upon completion of the class, volunteers receive a vest, helmet, safety goggles, gloves, flashlight and whistle, paid for the federal government.

Kerr said CERT volunteers in Green Valley generally range in age from about 45 to the mid-80s.

Those interested in learning more about CERT or signing up for the classes this fall should call Patty Kerr, assistant CERT coordinator, at 399-1234.

Kathy Engle is a freelance writer who lives in Amado. You can contact her at kdengle@earthlink.net.

ARE YOU PREPARED?

Keep these items on hand in case of an emergency:

First aid kit

Battery-operated radio

Blankets and pillows

Gas for vehicles

Flashlight and extra batteries

Medications

Important papers

Insurance cards

Driver’s license

Special needs items, such as those for pets

Cash money, since you may not be able to use credit cards

ID badges

Food, water

Jackets, sweaters

Changes of clothes