JACKSON, Wyo. — Teton County Emergency Management, a department of the county government, has released the application for a community emergency response team (CERT) training program. This class provides an opportunity to learn lifesaving skills to be used in the case of emergencies or disasters.

The CERT basic training program will take place over two weekends in October and is free to attend. All those interested must fill out an application. Sessions will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on October 4, 5, 11 and 12.

“Local CERT programs train and organize teams of volunteers to assist their families, neighbors, coworkers and other community members during emergencies when professional responders may not be immediately available to provide assistance,” says the Emergency Management website.

Topics and skills that will be covered in the training include first aid, disaster psychology, urban search and rescue, small-fire suppression and more.

Individuals who have completed the 32-hour basic training are then eligible to join the Teton County CERT team. Through the organization, members have access to continuing education, skills practice and team building activities. There are also opportunities for members to deploy to planned events and emergencies in the county.

Monica is a Staff Reporter who studied journalism at Syracuse University and has been in the valley since 2015. She loves writing about the local food and bev scene, especially craft beer. When she’s not on the clock, you can find her paddle boarding, sewing, or whipping up a new recipe at home.