The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training began classes at Oxmoor Road’s Catholic Social Service Building in Birmingham on Saturday, June 20. Jefferson County Emergency Management Association (EMA), Homewood Fire Department, and the Diocesan Office of Catholic Social Services united to offer the training to the public. CERTs are able to assist emergency services personnel when requested in accordance with standard operating procedures developed by the sponsoring agency and by area of training. They assume some of the same functions as emergency services personnel following a disaster, prepare families and communities prior to emergencies, and assist neighbors during an emergency when first responders are not immediately available. The training is being taught in Spanish and English. To learn more, e-mail jwatts@bhmdiocese.org.