CERT - FEMA's Teen Citizen Emergency Response Team

[sjones503]

I am an Eagle Scout I now work in the Emergency Management Field in South Carolina. Our agency now instructs the CERT program in our community and those that surround us. The State of SC is now promoting the Teen CERT program which is a spin off of the FEMA CERT program originally started in L.A. Calif. CERT teaches citizens to become First Responders during disaster situations (Hurricanes, Earthquakes, Tornadoes, Tsunamis, etc…). Target audiences are Boy and Girl Scout groups... The training courses are free through Department of Homeland Security grants in a number of communities across the nation...

The program teaches portions of Emergency Preparedness, Fire Safety, Safety, First Aid and public health, but not enough to qualify them for a completed merit badge...

What are the possibilities of developing a CERT merit badge, using the FEMA logo?

[riverwalk]

I think that's an interesting idea to explore. Of course I'm involved in such things, and would think that's neat, haha. There are a number of ways the youth groups could take interest in, and many would have aspects that comply with certain requirements. Citizen Corps, Fire Corps, Medical, CERT, Radio operators, or Red Cross opportunities.

Others in here have some experience with MB suggestions or development. I know currently, the opportunity exists for input to update the Handbook.

With the BSA's emerging interest in Emergency Preparedness, perhaps this may be considered. Your position may help you promote it in that way? I'm hopeful that I can bring more awareness to my own District, regarding the EP opportunities also.