Following Blizzard Elsa, which dumped up to 30 inches of snow across parts of the peninsula last week, Door and Kewaunee Counties are being reminded of the importance of community preparedness. The storm caused widespread power outages, stranded motorists, and forced local agencies to respond to multiple emergencies.

Door County’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program is now encouraging residents to take an active role in disaster readiness. CERT trains volunteers to safely assist their families, neighbors, and community during emergencies. Through classroom and hands-on instruction, participants learn basic medical care and first aid, search and rescue techniques, fire extinguisher use and safety, and disaster preparedness strategies for homes and neighborhoods.

The program’s next class is scheduled for this summer, and registration opens Thursday, March 20. If you are interested in volunteering, sign up by emailing JEB Saelens at jsaelens@co.door.wi.gov.

“Blizzard Elsa showed us how quickly conditions can become dangerous,” Saelens said. “CERT volunteers are equipped to make a real difference when every minute counts.”

With our recent severe weather event, getting trained through CERT not only strengthens personal preparedness but also builds a more resilient community across Door and Kewaunee counties.