Chilton County rescue squad trains for disaster

By Anna McFall / Staff Writer

Published Friday, November 6, 2009

The Chilton County Rescue Squad recently completed a Community Emergency Response Training program, known as CERT.

The objective of the course is to train individual civilians in first aid, search and rescue tactics, as well as basic emergency response techniques.

In addition to training, the participants receive equipment and medical supplies to keep with them in case they are called upon for community disaster support.

“Now as a CERT team, the Rescue Squad becomes able to respond to even more emergencies,” EMA Training Officer David Hicks said.

Chilton County currently has five CERT teams and is home to the largest certification squad in Alabama.

“The Chilton County Rescue Squad has served the citizens and communities of Chilton County for over 50 years, and we plan on doing so for many more years to come,” Rescue Squad President Chris Johnson said.

Funded by the Alabama Department of Homeland Security, CERT training is available free of charge to any interested community member.

“Training everyday citizens in emergency preparedness gives us more volunteers and emergency responders,” Bill Collum, Director of EMA services, said.

For more information about Community Emergency Response Training, contact the Chilton County EMA at 755-0900.

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