The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Citizen Corps invites residents to take part in a free Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Academy beginning Thursday, July 10. This hands-on training program empowers everyday citizens to effectively assist during emergencies and disasters.
Participants will learn critical life-saving skills, including:
- Disaster preparedness
- Basic emergency medical care
- Fire safety and suppression
- Light search and rescue
- Disaster psychology
- Terrorism awareness
No prior experience is needed, and teens aged 16–17 may participate with parental permission. Attendance at all sessions is required for graduation.
CERT Academy Schedule: The CERT Academy includes six in-person sessions held over two consecutive weekends.
- Thursday, July 10 – 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Friday, July 11 – 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Saturday, July 12 – 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Thursday, July 17 – 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Friday, July 18 – 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Saturday, July 19 – 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Location: Regional Public Safety Training Center (5190 Spectrum Boulevard, Reno, NV)
Upon successful completion, graduates gain valuable knowledge and become eligible to join the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Citizen Corps, which includes:
- Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
- Rail Auxiliary Team (RAT)
- Citizens Homeland Security Council (CHSC)
Currently, over 300 volunteers serve in the WCSO Citizen Corps, contributing to public safety through first responder support during emergencies and training, traffic control, first aid stations, and event support at major local gatherings such as the Reno Rodeo and Reno Balloon Races.
How to Enroll
To register for the CERT Academy, complete the application at www.washoesheriff.com/CERT. Application deadline: July 9, 2025
Questions?
Phone: (775) 325-6927
Email: WCSOCERT@washoecounty.gov
