The best way to Get Involved is by taking training that will help you be better prepared for emergencies. Training can range from self-study programs such as FEMA's Independent Study program to multi-day Community Emergency Response Team training. The resources below will help get you on your way to better preparedness.
FEMA Independent Study (IS) courses
FEMA offers a wide array of training courses. These are a few examples of courses that are helpful to anyone looking to be more involved in their community response to emergencies.
- IS-100.b Introduction to the Incident Command System, ICS 100
- IS-200.b ICS for Single Resources and Initial Action Incidents
- IS-700.a National Incident Management System (NIMS), An Introduction
- IC-244.b Developing and Managing Volunteers
- IS-288.a The Role of Voluntary Organizations in Emergency Management
- IS-909 Community Preparedness: Implementing Simple Activities for Everyone
For a complete list of FEMA IS courses, click here.
Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Training
CERT is a free, federally-funded program that gives attendees 20 hours of training to help them safely assist in their community during disasters. Learn more about CERT here.
FEMA IS Courses Specific to CERT:
FEMA Independent Study IS-317: Introduction to CERT - This Independent Study (IS) course is an introduction to the CERT program.
FEMA Independent Study IS-315: CERT and the ICS - This course introduces CERT leaders to the Incident Command System (ICS), a proven management system used by emergency managers.
Professional Training
Professional training for emergency managers, first responders, hospital staff, etc. is available through a number of different programs such as the Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI). Contact your agency training coordinator or reach out to EMD for more information about those training programs.