CERT training, as defined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), promotes a partnering effort between emergency services and the people that they serve. The goal is for qualified CERT instructors to train members of neighborhoods, community organizations, or workplaces in basic response skills. CERT members are then integrated into the emergency response capability for their area. In the event of a natural or man-made disaster, these individuals would provide assistance to their community if emergency services were delayed in response.

York County currently has more than 40 certified CERT Instructors and over 700 CERT team members. Classes are conducted on the basis of demand. Each member who graduates from the class receives a CERT backpack full of response tools.

For information on upcoming classes, visit the Office of Emergency Management's training calendar.

To request CERT classes in your area, contact Jeff Joy at 717-840-2990 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

For more info, view the CERT Brochure (.pdf).