Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT)

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) programs in South Carolina educate volunteers on disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their communities. CERT training equips South Carolinians with the skills needed to care for themselves and assist their neighbors until emergency personnel arrive. When sponsored by a local government agency or recognized organization, CERT-trained volunteers may also support local authorities when emergency response resources are overwhelmed following a major disaster.

What CERT Volunteers Do:

Before, during, and after emergencies, CERT volunteers may assist by:

• Ensuring personal and family safety
• Checking on neighbors and community members
• Sharing preparedness information
• Supporting emergency operations centers
• Assisting with light debris removal
• Helping manage volunteers, donations, and crowds

Join CERT in Your County

Many counties across South Carolina have adopted CERT programs to strengthen local preparedness, resilience, and self-reliance. The South Carolina Emergency Management Division provides guidance and serves as the State liaison for locally led CERT programs throughout South Carolina. While the State supports locally sponsored programs, the State does not have a State-sponsored program itself.

The list below includes locally sponsored CERT programs across the state. For more information about a specific program, visit its webpage or contact the program using the email link provided below. To learn more about starting a CERT program in your community, please contact cert@emd.sc.gov.