AVERT

Association of Volunteer Emergency Response Teams, Inc.


Mission Statement

Develop, support, train, equip and direct Community Emergency Response Teams and Programs to ensure continuity and to enable citizens to respond effectively to disasters and other extraordinary events within the Incident Command Structures of their respective Communities.

Master Plan

1. Through the CERT programs, train citizen volunteers who can respond safely and effectively in the event of disaster, crisis or extraordinary need.

  1. Organize and conduct CERT training classes, employing the services of the Communities and CERT Instructors.
  2. Provide advanced and supplemental training to active CERT trained citizens.


2. Organize and manage CERT volunteers for ready deployment in times of need.
  1. Develop and maintain an up-to-date database of CERT trained volunteers, their addresses and phone numbers, and their specialized skills.
  2. Ensure that each CERT has a functioning, effective team leader.
  3. Ensure that every location in AVERT's geographic service areas have a CERT assigned and that CERTs are provided with all other available and relevant information regarding their assigned areas.
  4. Establish and maintain effective lines and means of communication between each CERT and the Municipal Incident Command System(s) and ensure that CERTs are trained in the use of the system and equipment.

3. Equip and supply CERTs sufficiently that when called upon, they can achieve their maximum potential to save lives and property.

  1. Facilitate the establishment of suitable caches for storage of supplies and equipment to be used by CERTs in time of emergency.
  2. Develop and distribute a list of recommended tools, supplies, and equipment for CERTs, including information on proper storage, maintenance, and use.
  3. Purchase or obtain such equipment, etc., and distribute items to CERTs based on approved, pre-established criteria.

4. Promote awareness of and support for the CERT program by government entities, businesses, communities, and individuals. Work to increase the level of disaster preparedness in all sectors of the community.
  1. Following legal guidelines, actively solicit donations and grants of money and needed goods from government entities, businesses, and individuals.
  2. Sponsor and participate in programs that foster disaster awareness and preparedness among families, communities, and businesses.
  3. Publicize AVERT and CERT activities and programs and otherwise work to develop and maintain a degree of public awareness that will ensure a high level of support.

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