The crucial challenge we face when a big disaster strikes is that professional emergency responders will be overwhelmed. Hillsborough's disaster response strategy anticipates this by encouraging neighbors to plan in advance how they will help each other.
The expertise of CERTs can be a significant asset in this planning. If you haven't already, please get in touch with the Neighborhood Leads for your neighborhood and see how you can help. If you don't know who your Neighborhood Leads are, see the Find Your Neighborhood and Lead page to find out. If you live in a neighborhood without a Neighborhood Lead, please email us if you are willing to help start a neighborhood team.
Of course, during a disaster you can play a big role. Once you've made sure your own family and property are safe, we hope you'll use your expertise to help stabilize any serious situation or to assist professional responders, if needed.