Free Spring 2026 CERT Training Empowers Katy Residents with Emergency Preparedness Skills
As spring approaches, residents of the Katy area have a powerful opportunity to step up and support their community through free emergency response training, thanks to the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program offered by Harris County ESD 48 Fire-EMS.
Beginning Monday, February 9, 2026, the Spring 2026 CERT course will run weekly through April 6 at the Harris County ESD No. 48 Station #5 Administration Building, located at21201 Morton Road in Katy, TX 77449. Sessions take place Monday evenings from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., and—importantly—there is no cost to attend. Participants receive both a CERT manual and a starter backpack with essential emergency supplies.
The CERT program equips everyday citizens with the knowledge and skills to respond effectively during emergencies—before professional first responders can arrive. Through a mix of classroom instruction, hands-on practice, and disaster simulations, participants gain training in key areas including:
- Disaster Preparedness: Learn to assess risks, make emergency plans, and stay calm under pressure.
- Basic Medical Response: Understand first aid, triage, and how to assist injured persons during a crisis.
- Team Organization: Coordinate efficiently and lead within a team in high-stress environments.
- Disaster Simulation: Experience and respond to realistic emergency scenarios.
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Open to individuals ages 15 and older (with those under 18 required to attend with an adult), the course is ideal for parents, educators, scout leaders, HOA board members, and anyone wanting to protect and serve their local community.
The CERT initiative started in 1985 with the Los Angeles City Fire Department and has grown to more than 2,700 active programs across all 50 states. Harris County joined the nationwide effort in 2002 with the launch of Harris County Citizens Corps, creating local access to this impactful training in disaster resilience.
The Katy Area CERT program continues to be sponsored by Harris County ESD 48 Fire-EMS, the emergency services district serving approximately 160,000 residents across 29.54 square miles of unincorporated west Harris County—including neighborhoods, apartment communities, schools, commercial areas, and major roadways like I-10 and the Grand Parkway—through four strategically located fire stations providing fire protection, rescue, and emergency medical services.
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To register or learn more, contact Mary Payne at Mary.Payne@hcesd48.org, or click here to register online.
This free CERT training helps build stronger, safer, and more connected neighborhoods—one citizen responder at a time. Whether you’re looking to protect loved ones or contribute to broader community safety, this program is a meaningful way to make a difference.
Stay informed with My Neighborhood News for future updates on public safety, volunteer opportunities, and community classes in Katy.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
