When emergencies strike—whether severe weather, flooding, or unexpected disasters—neighbors are often the first to respond. In Montgomery County, a growing effort is underway to ensure residents are not only willing to help, but properly trained to do so safely and effectively.

The Montgomery County Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (OHSEM) has announced two upcoming Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training sessions for 2026, offering local residents in New Caney and Conroe, Texas the opportunity to become a vital part of their community’s emergency response network.

For families, homeowners, and local leaders, the program represents more than just training—it’s an investment in community resilience, public safety, and preparedness close to home.

Upcoming CERT Training Dates in New Caney and Conroe

Residents can choose from two upcoming sessions:

• New Caney CERT Training: June 3 – July 22, 2026
• Conroe CERT Training: September 2 – October 21, 2026

The training typically spans eight weeks, with one session per week, culminating in a hands-on disaster simulation designed to reinforce real-world response skills.

Those interested can register online through the official Montgomery County CERT page at ohsem-moco.hub.arcgis.com/pages/cert. 

For questions, residents can contact OHSEM directly at 936-523-3900. 

Why CERT Training Matters for Montgomery County Communities

As Montgomery County continues to grow, so does the importance of having trained residents who can step in during critical moments. Emergency responders may not always be able to reach every neighborhood immediately during large-scale events. That’s where CERT-trained volunteers make a difference.

The CERT program—recognized nationwide and supported by FEMA—was created to build a trained civilian emergency workforce capable of assisting during disasters while first responders focus on the most complex situations.

For local neighborhoods in New Caney, Conroe, and surrounding areas, this means:

• Faster response support during emergencies
• Increased neighborhood-level safety
• Stronger communication and coordination during crises
• Greater peace of mind for families and property owners

What Residents Learn in CERT Training

The CERT Basic Training program is designed to be practical, accessible, and immediately useful. Participants receive instruction in essential emergency response skills, including:

• Fire safety and fire suppression basics
• Light search and rescue techniques
• Disaster medical operations and first aid
• Team organization and communication
• Disaster preparedness and hazard awareness

The course concludes with a full-scale disaster simulation, giving participants the opportunity to apply what they’ve learned in a realistic, controlled environment.

Building a Culture of Preparedness in Montgomery County

The CERT program has deep roots, first developed by the Los Angeles City Fire Department in 1985 and later expanding nationwide in 1993. Today, there are more than 3,200 CERT programs across the United States, with over 600,000 trained volunteers contributing to safer, more prepared communities.

Montgomery County’s participation reflects a broader commitment to building what emergency management professionals call a “Culture of Preparedness”—where residents are not just aware of risks, but actively equipped to respond.

Beyond emergency situations, CERT members often support:

• Community safety initiatives
• Public events and preparedness outreach
• Local drills and emergency exercises

Opportunities for Teens, Schools, and Workplaces

CERT training is not limited to adults. Specialized programs are also available to expand preparedness across the community:

• Teen CERT programs help support school emergency plans
• Campus CERT programs strengthen college safety and response readiness
• Workplace CERT programs enhance business continuity and employee preparedness

These programs create a ripple effect—extending safety awareness beyond individual households into schools, workplaces, and public spaces throughout Montgomery County.

What Happens Next—and Why Now Is the Time to Register

With hurricane season, severe storms, and rapid regional growth all part of life in Southeast Texas, the need for trained, prepared residents continues to grow.

CERT training offers a practical way for residents to:

• Protect their families
• Support their neighbors
• Contribute to a stronger, safer community

Registration is now open, and sessions often fill quickly as interest in emergency preparedness training in Montgomery County continues to rise.

A Community Effort That Starts With One Step

In neighborhoods across New Caney, Conroe, and beyond, the strength of a community is often measured by how it responds in times of need. Programs like CERT help ensure that when those moments come, residents are ready—not just willing—to step forward.

For those looking to make a meaningful impact close to home, this training offers a clear path to getting involved.

Stay connected with My Neighborhood News for updates on local programs, safety initiatives, and opportunities that help strengthen our communities.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

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.