The latest class of the Barrow County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) ended its training with a disaster drill October 10.
CERT members were called upon to respond to a mock disaster scene which simulated tornado damage. Team members were assigned the task of searching for and rescuing victims.
“This drill helps the new students put to use all they have learned in the class,” said Mike Wilson, training officer for the Barrow County CERT.
CERT members had the opportunity to showcase newly learned skills including building searches, first aid, medical triage, fire control and rescue techniques.
Several members of the class had prior training and experience which contributed to their success as part of CERT.
Two members were emergency medical technicians, two are former military, one is a retired commercial pilot and another a member of the Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Department.
"We are grateful for all our volunteers and are building a team that we hope will be an asset to their communities and to all of Barrow County" said Wilson.
Previous CERT graduates staged the drill. Firefighters with Barrow County Fire and Emergency Services (BCFES) and the City of Winder evaluated team members during the exercise.
For more information about the Barrow County CERT, visit Barrowcert.org or call 770-868-7270.
