Our next series of CERT classes has been scheduled for to begin in September 2026 session. The classes will be held on Thursday evenings, unless otherwise indicated; each class, except the final exercise, will begin at 6 p.m. and end by 9 p.m. The location for all classes will be the Training Room at Fire Station #6, 2740 25th Street SE, Salem.
The dates are as follows:
- September 10, 17, and 24, 2026 (6 p.m. to 9 p.m.)
- October 1, 8 and 15, 2026 (6 p.m. to 9 p.m.)
- Saturday, October 17, 2026 (8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.) — This final session includes a mock disaster drill followed by the class graduation.
These classes are provided by the City of Salem CERT, under the auspices of the Salem Fire Department, and there is no charge to participate. To become certified, you must attend all classes in the series.
Class Syllabus:
- Week 1 – September 10th:
Introductions
Definition of CERT
Why we prepare
Class Expectations
Types of Disasters
Emergencies, etc.
Disaster Psychology - Week 2 – September 17th:
Fire Safety
Hazmat
Turning Off Utilities
Radio Communications
Plus Terrorism/Active Shooter Scenario - Week 3 – September 24th:
Disaster Medical, Part A
Bandaging - Week 4 – October 1st:
Disaster Medical, Part B
Backboard training - Week 5 – October 8th:
Urban Search and Rescue
Head to Toe Exam - Week 6 – October 15th:
Tabletop exercise
Plus anything we missed - Saturday – October 17th:
Mock Exercise, allowing you to practice the skills you have learned in a controlled environment.
Class Graduation
To enroll, please complete the three attached enrollment forms and return them electronically to Lola Hackett. If you are unable to open the forms or return them electronically, please let Lola know so that we can make alternative arrangements. Preregistration is required. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Lola Hackett at LolaH.CERT@yahoo.com.