About

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program is a nationally supported, locally implemented initiative that teaches people how to better prepare themselves for hazards that may affect their communities. Since 1993, CERT trains the public in basic disaster response skills such as team organization, disaster medical operations, fire safety, and light search and rescue. The ability for CERT volunteers to perform these activities frees up professional responders to focus their efforts on more complex, essential, and critical tasks.

This cost-free program teaches community members how to prepare for emergencies, including wildfires, and respond effectively when disaster strikes. The Carlsbad Fire Department provides an annual CERT academy to community volunteers.

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CERT Academy

The 2026 CERT Academy is now full. Thank you to everyone who expressed interest and submitted an application.

The Carlsbad Fire Department’s annual CERT Academy provides community members with hands-on emergency preparedness training aligned with the FEMA CERT Basic Curriculum. Participants receive instruction in disaster preparedness, disaster medical operations, fire safety, light search and rescue, terrorism awareness and radio communications.

The 2026 academy will take place June 17 through July 11 at the Carlsbad Safety Training Center on the following dates:

• Wednesday, June 17, 4–7 p.m.
• Wednesday, June 24, 4–7 p.m.
• Wednesday, July 1, 4–7 p.m.
• Wednesday, July 8, 4–7 p.m.
• Saturday, July 11, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

How to Apply

Space is limited. Applications for the next CERT Academy are expected to open in May 2027 through the department’s online application process.

Please check back for future CERT Academy opportunities and additional emergency preparedness programs.

• Applicants must be at least 18 years old
• Complete an online application and submit by email to Kim.Young@carlsbadca.gov
• All applications will be reviewed, and selected applicants will be contacted by Carlsbad Fire Department staff
• Selected participants must complete a Live Scan background check

Contact kim.young@carlsbadca.gov with any program related questions. 

Empty headingPurpose of CERT

Carlsbad CERT

Carlsbad CERT serves a vital role in the emergency preparedness and public safety of our community. Per Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) guidelines and local best practices, the stated purpose of Carlsbad CERT is: 

• To educate volunteers about preparing themselves for hazards that may affect their communities.
• To provide training in basic disaster response skills, e.g. fire safety.
• To provide a meaningful opportunity for Carlsbad residents to serve their neighborhoods, city and region.

Given the region’s persistent threat from wildfire, and the potential risks from earthquake, pandemic flu or other natural or man-made disasters, the Carlsbad Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) volunteer program plays a vital role in the City of Carlsbad’s goal to advance emergency preparedness. When large-scale incidents occur, CERT members may provide neighbor-helping-neighbor assistance before the arrival of Carlsbad first responders.

Since its inception in 2008, approximately 300 CERT volunteers have completed training. Carlsbad CERT volunteers are trained in basic first aid, light search and rescue and small fire suppression, and are closely associated with Carlsbad’s Fire Department. CERT volunteer activities are directed by the city’s Assistant Director of Emergency Services. They play a large role in community safety and emergency preparedness awareness and public outreach. Carlsbad CERT’s purpose is to assist the Carlsbad community and residents in emergency preparedness and response. CERT volunteers may not self-deploy or activate without proper approval. 

The program is geared toward Carlsbad residents.