CERT drill puts local first-responders to test
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Newport Beach neighborhoods were put to the test Saturday to determine how prepared they are for disaster.
The city’s Community Emergency Response Team held its third annual emergency preparedness drill as part of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s America’s PrepareAthon, a national program that encourages communities to have disaster drills.
A map shows Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) command posts (red dots) and where CERT volunteers reported “emergencies” (blue dots) during Newport Beach’s third annual emergency preparedness drill on Saturday on Balboa Island in Newport Beach on Saturday.
On Saturday, several Newport neighborhoods set up command posts and signs detailing a simulated emergency. Team members surveyed their areas and used search and rescue techniques, first aid and radio communications, just as they would during an actual disaster.
In a real emergency, organized neighborhood teams would provide a bridge between residents and city personnel during disruptions of normal operations and communications.
Residents who want to be part of the CERT program can sign up for training classes. To learn more, email [email protected].