The Hunter's Creek Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) was formed to respond to and assist the residents in case we were struck by a major disaster such as a hurricane or tornado. CERT consists of volunteers from our community who are interested in helping in an emergency. These volunteers need not have any prior training, because the training is provided by Orange County Fire Rescue under the auspices of the Federal Emergency Management Agency. CERT training provides you with the tools to deal with most potentially catastrophic situations until help arrives.

Why not leave rescue duties to Orange County? In case of minor emergencies, this may be appropriate. However, if we were hit by a tornado or a major hurricane, it could be days before enough resources would make it to Hunter's Creek. During that time, we would be on our own. We may not be able to wait for Orange County personnel if people are trapped, injured or property is destroyed. In addition to helping victims, CERT members also serve as extra sets of eyes and ears for Orange County Fire Rescue, reporting conditions and getting proper resources to the areas that need it most.