Hazard Management Cayman Islands recently received a boost to the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) programme. Mark VanDevelde, CEO of Dart Enterprises presented a check for CI $ 2,500 to Eric Bush Chief Officer of the Ministry of Home Affairs. Also on hand for the presentation at Camana Bay were, Deputy Chief Officer Wesley Howell and HMCI Director McCleary Frederick.

“We are appreciative of the donation, this will aid in the development of other CERT teams in other communities” Mr. McCleary Frederick said.

Hazard Management Cayman Islands and the Red Cross have now successfully trained and established CERT teams in West Bay, North Side and in the North Sound Gardens Community in Savannah. There is an already well-established team in Belford Estates and other teams are in various stages of development. In the aftermath of a disaster such as a land falling hurricane, roads may be blocked, people may need help, and it is likely that in the initial days Government will have to focus on bringing critical infrastructure such as the airport and port back on line. The CERT program is a vital component of building resilience. CERT teams may be needed to locate and assist the injured in their communities or perhaps set up food and water distribution areas to help those who are most desperate.

This donation will go towards equipment and training for the CERT teams. Training entails basic disaster preparedness and response skills, such as fire safety, CPR skills, search and rescue, and disaster medical operations. Community vulnerability analysis is also included.

If you are interested in establishing a CERT team in your community, or wish to join an established group, please contact Hazard Management Cayman Islands at 945-4624 or email [email protected]

IMAGE: Mark VanDevelde, CEO of Dart Enterprises presents a check for CI $ 2,500 to Eric Bush Chief Officer of the Ministry of Home Affairs.