Renton is inviting residents to take an active role in community safety through its upcoming 7-week Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training series, designed to prepare individuals to respond effectively during disasters.
The CERT program equips participants with practical skills needed in emergency situations, including personal preparedness, first aid, fire suppression, light search and rescue, and awareness of hazards such as terrorism. The training is intended to help residents support their families, neighbors, and communities when professional responders may be delayed or overwhelmed.
The course spans seven weekly sessions, with classes held every Thursday from April 16 through May 14, 2026, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. A final disaster response drill is scheduled for Saturday, May 30, from 9 a.m. to noon. Participants are required to attend all sessions to complete the program.
This initiative is offered in partnership with the Renton Regional Fire Authority, and sessions will be held at Fire Station #14, located at 900 Lind Ave SW in Renton, Washington.
Residents interested in participating can register online through the city’s official website by searching for the keyword “emergency.” The program aims to build a network of trained community members who can assist during emergencies and contribute to overall neighborhood resilience.