The Diocesan Community Emergency Response Team (C.E.R.T.) and Catholic Social Services Disaster Responsecontinue to strengthen emergency preparedness capabilities by expanding training in advanced lifesaving skills. As part of their ongoing commitment to protecting and serving the Catholic Diocese of Birmingham in Alabama and all those communities within the diocese, team members recently participated in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) certification training.

The training provided members of Diocesan C.E.R.T. and Catholic Social Services Disaster Response with practical, hands-on experience in recognizing and responding to cardiac emergencies. Participants practiced proper CPR techniques using training mannequins and learned how to safely and effectively operate an AED. These critical skills can make a significant difference during the first few minutes of a cardiac emergency while professional emergency medical services are responding.

CPR and AED certification represents another important step in the continued development of Diocesan C.E.R.T. and Catholic Social Services Disaster Response. Team members are being prepared to assist during emergencies that may occur at parishes, schools, diocesan facilities, community events, disaster response locations, and other sites throughout the diocese.

The Diocesan C.E.R.T. and Catholic Social Services Disaster Response programs emphasize a comprehensive approach to emergency preparedness. Members receive training designed to help them respond to disasters, medical emergencies, severe weather incidents, fires, evacuations, and other situations in which trained volunteers can provide immediate assistance until professional responders arrive.

The continued development of Diocesan C.E.R.T. and Catholic Social Services Disaster Response reflects a shared commitment to creating a safer, stronger, and more prepared Catholic community.