CERT Will Give You Shelter From the Storm

The Westport Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) participated in a joint emergency shelter simulation exercise at Staples High School, the designated location for residents who are displaced and need a safe place to stay during an emergency event.

Led by Westport Fire Chief Robert Yost, the town’s Emergency Management Director, and CERT President Mike Vincelli, the simulation included firefighters and police officers. CERT members set up a mini version of the shelter, an administrative and management structure, played roles of citizens needing shelter and ran through problem scenarios. An after action review was held to see what lessons were learned.

CERT has experience operating shelters in the past at the Senior Center and Long Lots School. All members are DHS and FEMA certified emergency response volunteers.

Training for new volunteers is scheduled to take place in October. For information about the training, send a request to info@westportcert.org.

CERT members (from left to right): Patricia Cavallaro, Steve Levine, Mark Modzelewski, Linda Bruce, Sylina Jacobs, Francine Goldstein, President Mike Vincelli, Andree Brooks, Secretary Molly Alger, Esther Korovillas, CERT Liaison and Fire Lt. Brendan McHugh and Vice President David Kinyon.