The Saratoga CERT program has over 180 trained volunteers who can be activated in case of a significant event. They will assist the Saratoga community and act as first responders to provide neighborhoods with search and rescue, light medical operations, radio communications, damage assessment, and other related functions.

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) concept was developed and implemented by the Los Angeles City Fire Department (LAFD) in 1985. Since then, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recognized the importance of preparing citizens. Now, the CERT training has been adopted and expanded by the Emergency Management Institute (EMI) and the National Fire Academy since 1993.

Our city has recognized the need to augment Fire department personnel with trained citizens who can help in case of a disaster. Saratoga uses the CERT curriculum and the training provided by the Santa Clara County Fire Department to train interested Saratoga residents.

The Saratoga CERT program is adminsitered by the Saratoga Parks and Recreation Director and Risk Manager. The hierarchy below that is the standard CERT organization managed by the volunteers.

We divide Saratoga into 3 formal divisions and an “at-large” group:

  • Argonaut
  • Cox Avenue
  • Quito North/West Valley