Emergency response team shares tips for National Preparedness Month

Residents can also enhance their preparedness by enrolling in CERT Basic Training

– In recognition of National Preparedness Month, the Paso Robles Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), sponsored by Paso Robles Fire and Emergency Services, is encouraging residents to prepare for potential emergencies and disasters. California is prone to wildfires, floods, earthquakes, extreme heat, power outages, and other disasters. The information shared during National Preparedness Month is intended to help individuals, families, and communities stay safe by building resilience before disasters strike.

This year’s campaign theme is “Start a Conversation.” CERT emphasizes the importance of discussing potential emergencies with loved ones to begin taking steps toward preparedness. Although such conversations can be difficult, they are a crucial first step in getting ready for disasters.

CERT recommends five steps to build personal preparedness at your own pace:

1. Sign up for alerts and notifications by registering for Reverse 911 at
2. and downloading PulsePoint Respond.
3. Assemble a go bag for each family member, including pets.
4. Prepare a family emergency plan.
5. Build a stay-at-home kit.
6. Check with neighbors to see if they will need assistance during a disaster.

Residents can also enhance their preparedness by enrolling in CERT Basic Training, a 20-hour course designed to teach individuals how to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters. The course will take place at the Paso Robles Public Safety Center, located at 900 Park Street, on Oct. 15, 17, 22, and 24 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and on Oct. 26 from 9 a.m. to about 5 p.m. The training is free and open to individuals ages 15 and older. To register, visit NorthSLOCountyCERT.org.