Harris County Citizen Corps Hosts 18th Annual CERT Rodeo to Strengthen Emergency Preparedness
The Harris County Citizen Corps is set to host the 18th Annual CERT Rodeo on Saturday, February 15, 2025, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Harris County Fire & Sheriff’s Training Academy, located at 2318 Atascocita Road in Humble, Texas. The event brings together Community Emergency Response Teams (CERTs) from across the state to engage in hands-on disaster response training, testing their skills in medical operations, search and rescue, fire suppression, incident command, and hazardous materials recognition.
Each year, more than 400 participants and volunteers contribute to the success of this event, helping to build stronger, more resilient communities through emergency preparedness training.
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What is the CERT Rodeo?
The CERT Rodeo is an annual event designed to test and enhance the skills of trained CERT volunteers, providing a realistic, scenario-based environment where teams can practice critical disaster response techniques. Participants will rotate through various emergency simulations, applying their knowledge in a controlled, high-stakes setting that mimics real-world crises.
"Residents who complete the CERT program and practice these life-saving skills help ensure our community is more knowledgeable and better prepared," said Harris County Citizen Corps Director Mark Sloan. "Our Harris County CERT teams play a crucial role in helping to build safer, more resilient communities."
The Impact of CERT in Harris County
Since its inception in 2003, the Harris County CERT program has grown significantly, reaching a major milestone in 2024, surpassing 63,000 trained volunteers. These volunteers assist with community events, emergency drills, and exercises alongside first responders and emergency managers throughout the year.
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CERT volunteers are trained to provide immediate assistance in their neighborhoods and workplaces following disasters when professional first responders may be delayed or overwhelmed. The training includes first aid, fire safety, light search and rescue, and disaster medical operations, equipping participants with essential skills that can save lives during emergencies.
Becoming a CERT Volunteer
Individuals interested in joining CERT must complete a comprehensive 24-hour training course, taught by first responders over an eight-week period. This training focuses on emergency preparedness basics, ensuring that participants can respond effectively in their homes, workplaces, and communities.
CERT training is open to residents of all backgrounds who want to contribute to their community’s safety. Graduates of the program can become active CERT members, participating in disaster response, public education, and support for first responders during major emergencies.
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Why the CERT Rodeo Matters
The CERT Rodeo not only reinforces life-saving skills but also fosters collaboration between teams across Texas. With severe weather events, flooding, and other natural disasters posing an ongoing threat to the Greater Houston area, having a network of trained volunteers can make a critical difference in community resilience.
By hosting this large-scale training event, the Harris County Citizen Corps continues to demonstrate its commitment to public safety, ensuring that volunteers remain well-prepared for any emergency.
How to Get Involved
For those interested in becoming CERT-trained or learning more about community emergency preparedness, visit the Harris County Citizen Corps website at harriscountycitizencorps.com for upcoming training opportunities.
By participating in CERT training and community exercises like the CERT Rodeo, volunteers can make a real impact in ensuring Harris County remains prepared, resilient, and ready for any disaster.
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.
