Explore Your Potential: Free CERT Training Empowers Katy Communicator Residents to Be Emergency-Ready
When emergencies strike, the first response often comes from within the community. That’s the heart behind the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program—a free, in-depth training series coming to Katy, Texas this fall through Harris County ESD 48 Fire-EMS.
Starting Monday, September 8, 2025, the CERT class series will meet weekly through November 3 at the Harris County ESD No. 48 Station #5 Administration Building, located at 21201 Morton Road, Katy, TX 77449. Classes run from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., and there’s no cost to participate.
Participants will walk away with more than just knowledge—they’ll receive a CERT manual and a free starter backpack filled with preparedness supplies. But most importantly, they’ll leave empowered to help their families and neighbors in times of crisis.
What is CERT?
The Community Emergency Response Team course is designed to train everyday citizens in emergency preparedness and disaster response techniques. Whether it’s a flood, fire, power outage, or other crisis, CERT volunteers are equipped to assist until professional responders arrive—and often work side-by-side with them during extended emergencies.
By completing the CERT program, residents gain access to a growing network of trained individuals ready to support their communities when it matters most.
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Skills That Make a Difference
The CERT program combines lectures, hands-on exercises, and real-world simulations to build confidence and capability in these key areas:
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Disaster Preparedness: Learn how to assess risks, build emergency plans, and make informed decisions during a crisis.
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Basic Medical Response: Gain essential skills like first aid, triage, and treating minor injuries.
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Team Organization: Understand how to coordinate effectively with others during high-stress situations.
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Disaster Simulation: Apply what you’ve learned in realistic emergency scenarios to prepare for real-world responses.
Who Can Attend?
This class is open to ages 15 and up. However, participants ages 15–17 must be accompanied by an adult. The program is perfect for neighborhood leaders, parents, teachers, scout leaders, and anyone interested in keeping their community safer and stronger.
How to Register
Ready to take the next step? Contact Mary Payne at Mary.Payne@hcesd48.org or sign up here to reserve your spot.
This training is sponsored by Harris County ESD 48 Fire-EMS, a department committed to public safety, education, and proactive community engagement across Katy and West Houston.
Whether you're looking to protect your family, contribute to your neighborhood, or prepare for a career in emergency services, CERT is your first step toward becoming a trusted and capable resource when it matters most.
Stay tuned with My Neighborhood News for more public safety updates, volunteer opportunities, and community classes in Katy.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
