The Carson City Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is opening the door for people who want to learn how to help when emergencies happen.
The group is accepting applications for its free Basic Training Academy, which begins May 7. The program is part of a nationwide effort that trains volunteers to support first responders and help their communities prepare for critical events.
The academy covers a range of topics, including disaster preparedness, fire safety and utility control, disaster medical operations, disaster psychology, light search and rescue, and terrorism response.
Training includes about 26 hours of classroom instruction spread across 6 sessions over 2 weeks. Classes are scheduled on Thursday and Friday evenings, along with all-day Saturday sessions. The program wraps up with a hands-on demonstration of the skills learned, and all sessions must be completed to graduate.
Organizers say no prior experience is required, and people do not need to live in Carson City to take part. Children between 16 and 17 years old can attend with a signed parent permission release.
Those who complete the training are encouraged to stay involved throughout the year. That includes monthly training meetings, additional exercises, helping share preparedness information at community events, and supporting first responders during critical incidents.
People interested in applying are asked to email cert@carsoncity.govto request an application and note their interest in the May 2026 academy. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Thursday, April 23. Space in the academy is limited.
