Parker County CERT
COMMUNITY Emergency Response Team (CERT)
The CERT concept originated in 1985 to enhance local disaster readiness. Disasters such as the Whittier Narrows earthquake in 1987 highlighted the importance of equipping civilians to address immediate needs during emergencies. Building on lessons learned from Civil Defense initiatives dating back to the mid-20th century, CERT reflects a long-standing national commitment to community resilience and preparedness.
In 1993, CERT became a nationwide program under FEMA's guidance. While each program is unique to its community, all programs share the common goal of building a culture of preparedness throughout the United States. Today, there are more than 3,200 local CERT programs and over 600,000 trained volunteers nationwide. These programs continue the legacy of Civil Defense by empowering individuals to act as force multiplies in disaster response, bridging the gap between professional responders and community needs.
Community Emergency Response Teams help coordinate volunteer activities that will make our community safer, stronger, and better prepared to respond to emergency situations. It provides opportunities for people to participate in a range of measures to help make their family, their home, and their community safer from the threats of crime, terrorism, and disasters of all kinds.
Parker County established its CERT Program in the early 2000s.
Additional information about national CERT guidance can be found here.
LOCAL CERT ClassES
Looking for an opportunity to receive free training that can help make a difference in an emergency or disaster?
The 33-hour Parker County Basic CERT class is held twice a year; in the Spring and Fall. Each class is delivered over the course of three 3-hour Monday evenings and three 8-hour Saturdays.
Volunteers will have to complete a background check and must sign-up to attend by emailing pccert@parkercountytx.com. CERT Members must be at least 18 years of age or older. Please fill out the official form here.
Spring 2026 CERT Class (click here)
Monday, April 6th, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, April 11th, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Monday, April 13th, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, April 18th, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Monday, April 20th, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, April 25th, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Fall 2026 CERT Class (click here)
Monday, October 5th, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, October 10th, 8:00 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Monday, October 12th, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, October 17th, 8:00 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Monday, October 19th, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, October 24th, 8:00 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Class location will be sent to attendees ahead of time.
Topics to be taught are as follows:
Unit 1….Emergency Preparedness
Unit 2….Fire Safety
Unit 3…Medical ops 1
Unit 4…Medical ops 2
Unit 5… Light Search and Rescue
Unit 6… CERT organization
Unit 7…Disaster Psychology
Unit 8…CERT and the Modern Threat Environment
Unit 9….wrap up, test, and exercise
CPR/AED and Stop the Bleed
For more information, please contact the Parker County Office of Emergency Management at 817-598-0969 or Email: pccert@parkercountytx.com.
Volunteers will have to complete a background check and must sign-up to attend by emailing pccert@parkercountytx.com.
Bring a pen and paper or notebook to each class day. Books and other training supplies will be provided.
Parker County
Community Emergency Response Team
Parker County prepares for everyday emergencies. During a disaster, the number and scope of incidents can overwhelm conventional emergency services. In such situations, individuals may need to step in and provide immediate lifesaving assistance until first responders arrive.
The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program is a FREE, 33-hour, all-hazard training that equips you with the skills to care for yourself, your family, your neighbors, and, if necessary, your community during an emergency.
CERT is a group of volunteers, age 18 and older, who are trained to assist first responders until professional fire, police, and EMS units arrive on the scene, which could take anywhere from a few minutes to several hours during and immediately following a disaster.
This training fosters a strong partnership between emergency service providers and the community they serve. CERT members learn to respond effectively and efficiently without placing themselves in danger, enhancing Parker County’s emergency response capabilities.
After completing the basic course, continuing education opportunities are available at no cost to all CERT members.
The CERT Basic Course provides specialized training that includes:
Disaster Damage Assessments
Disaster First Aid, Triage, & Psychology
Emergency & Disaster Preparedness
Fire Suppression & Utility Controls
Light Search and Rescue
Patient Triage
Severe Weather
Team Organization & Incident Command
The Modern Threat Environment & Public Safety
Additional training for CERT members may include: CPR/AED Awareness, Stop the Bleed, Public Education, Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Functions, and other related topics.
For additional information, please visit https://www.parkercountytx.gov/121/CERT or contact Parker County Emergency Management Specialist and CERT Program Manager Dylan McFarland at:
Office: (817) 598-0969
Email: PCCERT@ParkerCountyTX.com
Sign up today to become part of Parker County CERT and help make a difference during emergencies!