CERT Training

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training is designed to teach self-sufficiency in the event of a catastrophic disaster. Following a major earthquake or similar event, professional first responders, such as fire and emergency medical services, may be unable to respond to every emergency. However, trained citizens are prepared before a disaster strikes, and have the skills to help themselves, their family and their neighbors. CERT is about readiness, people helping people and doing the greatest good for the greatest number.  The City of Burbank Fire Department, through the Burbank Fire Corps Program, provides CERT training to the public.

Burbank CERT teaches with a positive and realistic approach. Our CERT classes fully satisfy national FEMA standards, though we boost the 17.5 hour minimum to 24 total hours to give more extensive hands-on training and a greater focus on local hazards. Further, we teach in a condensed four-meeting schedule designed to accommodate folk with a full work week. Prospective students are encouraged to register early. For more information on the CERT program, contact the CERT Training Coordinator.

Burbank CERT training utilizes the Burbank Fire Training Center (FTC), the same classroom and tower facility used by the Burbank Fire Academy to mold recruits into firefighters. Prospective students do not need to be a member of the Burbank Fire Corps Program to take this class. Students do need to be 18+ years of age, or 16+ with a parent's written permission.

Closed toe shoes and long pants are required for each of the classes. A significant portion of the class instruction is hands-on training conducted outdoors, outdoor training takes place rain or shine; please dress accordingly for forecasted weather conditions. Bringing a water bottle or canteen to class is highly encouraged.

Prospective CERT students are encouraged, though not required, to prepare for the class through the Citizen Corps' free, online Independent Study course. This online course is also an excellent refresher for previous CERT graduates.

Frequently Asked CERT Training Questions

Q: The link to RSVP for walk-in registration is not working?

A: If you are unable to complete RSVP for walk-in registration through the link, please email cert@burbankfirecorps.org

Q: I’m suffering an old knee injury, but CERT seems really cool. Is there any way I can make it through the class?

A: Yes. The idea of CERT training is to build preparedness and response capacity in you. While there is definitely a physical aspect to the class, it scales with your own abilities - and it’s one of the reasons we give so much hands-on time in class.

Q: What if I am registered but miss the first day of class?

A: You can show up to any of the remaining class dates, you will just need to make up the missed classes during a future Burbank CERT class in order to receive a certificate of completion.