Meet Irvine’s Newest CERT Graduates: Everyday Heroes Ready for Emergencies!

In a world where disasters can strike at any moment, Irvine has taken a proactive step by graduating a new class of Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) members. These dedicated volunteers completed an intensive training program to help their neighborhoods stay safe during emergencies. Breaking Now News (BNN) brings you an inside look at their journey.

Who Are Irvine’s CERT Graduates?

These graduates represent Irvine’s commitment to community resilience. They underwent hands-on training in essential emergency response skills, including:

• Disaster Preparedness – Learning how to assess risks and create emergency plans.
• Fire Safety – Practicing fire suppression techniques and identifying hazards.
• Medical Triage – Understanding basic first aid and managing injuries in crisis situations.
• Search & Rescue – Mastering light search-and-rescue operations safely.
• Team Coordination – Working effectively with first responders during disasters.

Why CERT Matters More Than Ever

With wildfires, earthquakes, and other emergencies becoming more frequent, CERT volunteers serve as first responders in their own communities. While professional emergency services may be overwhelmed in large-scale disasters, these trained individuals can:

1. Provide immediate assistance before help arrives.
2. Help reduce panic by guiding neighbors with clear instructions.
3. Support local emergency operations when requested.

“This training gave us the confidence to act when seconds count,” one graduate told BNN. “It’s not just about helping yourself—it’s about being there for your whole community.”

How You Can Get Involved

Interested in joining Irvine’s next CERT class? Here’s how:

• Check Eligibility – Open to all residents 18+ (some cities allow younger teens with parental consent).
• Sign Up – Visit Irvine’s emergency services website for upcoming sessions.
• Commit to Training – Courses typically run over several weeks, blending online and in-person learning.

What Do You Think?

• Should CERT training be mandatory for all adults, like jury duty?
• Would you trust a neighbor with basic emergency skills over waiting for professionals?
• Are cities like Irvine doing enough to prepare residents for disasters—or is this just a feel-good program?
• Should CERT volunteers receive tax incentives for their training and service?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!