Asheville -- April 16, 2026: The Asheville Fire Department (AFD) is launching its Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). The CERT Program, coordinated by the Asheville Fire Department, provides community members with practical skills to help their community during emergencies when first responders may be delayed or overwhelmed. The program follows national CERT standards while incorporating Asheville-specific needs and hazards, including flooding, severe weather, wildfire, and community support operations.
What CERT Members Are Trained To Do:
CERT members are trained to operate safely within defined limits.
Disaster preparedness and hazard awareness
Fire extinguisher use and small fire safety
Light search and rescue (non-structural collapse)
Basic disaster medical operations (triage and treatment area setup)
Team organization and accountability
Personal and family preparedness planning
Who Can Join?
Asheville community members (18+)
No prior experience required
Participants must complete CERT basic training
Online Classroom and Hands-On Training Day
Must agree to follow AFD activation and safety protocols
Participants are subject to a background check
For more information, or to apply, visit our CERT landing page: :
Apply for Asheville CERT here