Homeland Security Links

CERT provides training in emergency preparedness and basic response techniques enabling citizens to take a more active role in personal and public safety. Each CERT member completes 20 hours of training on disaster preparedness, basic disaster medical operations, fire safety, light search and rescue, and other essential topics. The training also includes a disaster simulation in which participants practice skills they learned throughout the course. In the event of an emergency, CERT members can provide immediate assistance to victims, assist in organizing spontaneous volunteers at a disaster site and provide critical support to first responders.

Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS) works to enhance the capacity of state and local law enforcement to utilize volunteers. VIPS serves as a gateway to resources and information for and about law enforcement volunteer programs. Funded by the U.S. Department of Justice, VIPS is managed and implemented by International Association of Chiefs of Police.

Fire Corps is a program to support fire departments by encouraging citizen advocates to serve in non-emergency roles. Through its partnerships with fire service organizations and local Citizen Corps Councils across the country, Fire Corps actively involves citizens in public education, training, and volunteer efforts focused on fire prevention and safety. Fire Corps is a partnership between The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), the International Association of Fire Chiefs Volunteer Combination Officers Section (VCOS), the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s U.S. Fire Administration and Office of State and Local Government Preparedness and Coordination.

Due by 2/1/10 @ 5:00 pm