Have you ever wondered how you would react in a serious crisis? Would you freeze or panic? Would you know what to do and how to organize people around you to deal with the situation at hand?
For two CERT classes, a final exam on April 27th put those questions to the test during a simulation dealing with the aftermath of an earthquake. There were utilities to be cut off, fires to be put out, people to be rescued and given medical attention, and communications to be maintained by the various groups with the Incident Commander who coordinated efforts and deployed resources. Even knowing it was a simulation, the adrenaline ran high as everyone dealt with the crisis. It was hard to remember it was a test and the injured were volunteers acting as victims. With people scattered around calling for help or crying out, some trapped under piles of debris, at times it looked like mass chaos. In actuality it was a well organized effort by everyday people stepping up in response to immediate needs in a chaotic situation.
Twenty-nine private citizens from all over Marion County and 17 IMPD Explorers skillfully executed their responsibilities, resulting in successful completion of the exercise. Following a debriefing, participants were presented with certificates of course completion and issued backpacks containing basic necessities needed for emergency response efforts.
It was especially rewarding to see so many young people ages 14 to 19 involved in the program. The IMPD Explorer’s Post 435 is sponsored by IMPD and works with young people who have an interest in possible careers in law enforcement. They undergo training in a number of areas, go on field trips and volunteer at major events in Marion County assisting IMPD officers with traffic and crowd control. To learn more about the IMPD Explorer program, contact Officer Daniel Bullman or Sgt. George Long at 327-3105.
Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training is a national program presented by the Office of Homeland Security. It is a 21-hour course preparing volunteers to assist in their neighborhoods should a major disaster prevent professional first responders (police, firefighters, medical crews, etc.) from reaching your area for days following major catastrophic events such as earthquakes, tornadoes or floods. Courses are offered several times a year. More information and schedules can be found online at www.indy.gov/dhs or by calling 327-3900.
