What is CERT

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training is designed to teach self-sufficiency in the event of a catastrophic disaster. Following a major earthquake or similar event, professional first responders, such as fire and emergency medical services, may be unable to respond to every emergency. However, trained citizens are prepared before a disaster strikes, and have the skills to help themselves, their family and their neighbors. CERT is about readiness, people helping people and doing the greatest good for the greatest number. The City of Burbank Fire Department, through the Burbank Fire Corps Program, provides CERT training to the public.

Burbank CERT teaches with a positive and realistic approach. Our CERT classes fully satisfy national FEMA standards, though we boost the 17.5 hour minimum to 24 total hours to give more extensive hands-on training and a greater focus on local hazards. Further, we teach in a condensed four-meeting schedule designed to accommodate folk with a full work week. Prospective students are encouraged to register early. For more information on the CERT program, contact the CERT Training Coordinator.

Burbank CERT training utilizes the Burbank Fire Training Center (FTC), the same classroom and tower facility used by the Burbank Fire Academy to mold recruits into firefighters. Prospective students do not need to be a member of the Burbank Fire Corps Program to take this class. Students do need to be 18+ years of age, or 16+ with a parent's written permission.

Please note that there is a $50 partially refundable fee for the class. This covers the expense of a CERT backpack, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and a CERT manual. Upon successful completion of the CERT class, the graduate will receive a $25 partial refund of their deposit. If the graduate goes on to join the Burbank Fire Corps Program, they will receive an additional $25 partial refund. For further information regarding the partial refunds, check our FAQ page.