People take CERT classes for different reasons. Learning how to be prepared for a disaster or emergency is the most common. People may want to learn how to take care of themselves, their families, and maybe their neighbors. Many of us take CERT training so that, once our own house and family are safe and secure, we might be able to help in our neighborhoods.<\/p>\n
Most people who start the 25 hour Basic Training<\/a> also complete it. At the end, Martinez area residents<\/a> are offered the option to be sworn in as a “Disaster Service Worker<\/strong>” (a DSW) with the City of Martinez. Being a DSW means that the City’s insurance covers volunteers who may be injured during an official recovery effort or during official training.<\/p>\n There are two levels for being a DSW: local and full.<\/p>\n Your DSW status is good for three years<\/em>, and can be renewed as described in our updated policy below.<\/p>\n Effective Jan. 2020<\/p>\n Members of Martinez CERT who have become Disaster Service Workers by completing the 25-hour basic class and participating in a disaster exercise will be required to renew their DSW status if they have completed the course prior to January of 2023.<\/p>\n This change in policy is to keep our DSW members current on their training and response skills. The CERT Steering Committee has recommended that every three years DSW members:<\/p>\n By participating in one of these three activities DSW member can renew their active status for participation in an actual disaster event. Failure to complete one of the three activities during the year will result in the member losing their DSW status. Instructors and active CERT Administrative members are exempt from this requirement. This policy will re-occur each year in January of the new year for DSW members who have taken their training over three years ago from that year.<\/p>\n\n
DSW Policy changes for Martinez Area CERT Members<\/h2>\n
DSW Renewal Requirement<\/h3>\n
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