Inland Valley CERT

Welcome to Inland Valley CERT

The Inland Valley - Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is committed to providing quality emergency and disaster preparedness, leadership, and coordination in a given situation and is ready in a moment notice to assist Fire, Law Enforcement, and local government.
This is accomplished because of our dedication, experience, and thorough training in multiple disciplines. Level 1 CERT Training, designed by FEMA, and taught by experts.  In addition, we are trained in Weapons of Mass Destruction, Biological and Chemical Awareness, and Terrorism. Required participation in training scenarios go towards enhancing the team’s knowledge and value to the community and to the agencies we support.

The Inland Valley CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) coordinated through the Pala Fire Department is comprised of citizen volunteers trained to support our local police and fire departments.  CERT members are trained to provide damage assessment, victim assistance, shelter management, and evacuation guidance.

Following a major disaster, fire and police resources will not be able to immediately meet all of the demands for their services. The CERT program provides for community self-reliance in order to meet the general public's needs.  Through training and preparedness CERT members will be valuable to their community during major disasters.
As a member of CERT, you can respond to disasters, participate in drills and exercises. CERT members receive 24 hours of initial training. Continuing education programs, consisting of fun and exciting quarterly exercises that will update and maintain team readiness.

Inland Valley Community Emergency Response Team  (CERT) along with the Pala Fire Department would like to express our gratitude to San Diego Police Foundation.  San Diego Police Department helped plant the seed to establish Inland Valley (CERT) by awarding Pala Fire Department a CERT grant.  The San Diego Police Foundation was selected by Qualcomm, Incorporated to administer a grant by means of increasing Disaster Education and Preparedness in the San Diego Region.  Their goal is to use education and preparedness programs to expand awareness of disaster impacts.  Programs selected help citizens and businesses accomplish the following.

• Move toward firm plans and personal responsibility.
• Increase understanding of law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services agencies’ limitations
• Help reduce economic loss