Harris County Citizen Corps Hosts 12th Annual CERT Rodeo

HARRIS COUNTY, TX – Harris County Citizen Corps will hold its 2018 CERT Rodeo on Saturday, February 10, 2018, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Harris County Fire & Sheriff’s Training Academy, 2318 Atascocita Road in Humble.

Community Emergency Response Teams (CERTs) from around the state will test their skills in medical operations, search and rescue, fire suppression, incident command, and hazmat recognition. Every year, more than 300 participants and volunteers contribute to the success of this event.

“Harris County’s CERT program is one of the strongest in the nation,” said Harris County Judge Ed Emmett. “The program’s success is due in large part to its partnership with first responders, non-profit agencies, local jurisdictions, and community organizations.”

In 2017, CERT membership grew to more than 30,000 trained volunteers. Throughout the year, CERT volunteers assisted with flood recovery operations, community events, drills and exercises with first responders and emergency managers.

During Hurricane Harvey’s initial response and ongoing recovery phase, CERT volunteers have been instrumental to the success of local agencies and organizations. Team members from across the county volunteered at shelters and donation centers, assisted their neighbors, helped with traffic control, and helped emergency responders transport residents to safety after they were evacuated from their homes.

“CERT volunteers are essential partners and play a crucial role in emergency preparedness and recovery,” added Emmett. “We appreciate their dedication and selfless service that helps keep our communities safer.”

To be a CERT member, individuals must complete an extensive eight-week course taught by first responders to improve their proficiency in emergency preparedness basics that can be used in their homes, workplaces, and communities.

For information on how to join Harris County Citizen Corps go to www.harriscountycitizencorps.com. News and updates are also available on Facebook.