Community Emergency Response Training prepares residents for disasters

GULFPORT, Miss. (WXXV)- In the midst of hurricane season, the Harrison County Emergency Management Agency is making sure residents are prepared for whatever disasters make their way to the Coast.

On Monday, the EMA kicked off their training for their community emergency response team, or CERT. The free five-day course educates residents on disaster preparedness, search and rescue, medical safety, as well as other topics to make sure they’re ready when trouble strikes.

In an emergency, it can take first responders time to arrive on scene, that’s why training is as crucial as ever.

Harrison County EMA Director Matt Stratton says it will be a few months before they offer their next class, but if you’re interested in signing up, keep up with the Harrison County Board of Supervisor’s website and Facebook.