CENTRAL MAUI – The Maui County Emergency Management Agency is hosting Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training classes beginning April 8.

Endorsed by FEMA, the CERT program trains the public to prepare for disasters that their community may face. Through hands-on practice and realistic exercises, CERT teams are trained in basic disaster response skills such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization and disaster medical operations.

When emergencies happen, CERT volunteers can give critical support to professional first responders by providing immediate assistance to victims at a disaster site. CERT Basic Training is a 24-hour program taught by Maui Fire Department instructors.

The training is free to Maui County residents and open to people of all abilities, ages 18 and older, with no previous experience needed. Ages 14-17 may attend with a parent or legal guardian.

Central Maui CERT classes will be held April 8 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., April 10 from 5:30 to 9 p.m., April 13 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., April 15 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., April 17 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. and April 20 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. All classes are required to complete the course.

Participants must register to attend the training. Class size is limited, and registration will be on a first-come, first-served basis. The specific class location will be announced. Call 270-7285 or e-mail cert@mauicounty.gov.