Trained locally. Ready together.

When our community
needs us most.

Neighbors helping neighbors through preparation, emergency response, and practical support for Van Wert County’s first responders.

Become a volunteer → See how we serve
24/7Community readiness
100%Volunteer powered
CERTFEMA-based training

Our mission

Prepared people build a stronger community.

Van Wert County CERT equips everyday people with the skills to help safely when emergencies stretch professional resources.

Working alongside local public-safety agencies, our trained volunteers assist at incidents, community events, and during recovery—bringing calm, care, and capability where it matters.

Meet the team at our next training ↗

How we help

Support that keeps
the response moving.

Flexible by mission. Grounded in essential skills that protect responders and the public.

01
✚

Responder rehab
& canteen

Hydration, nutrition, warming, cooling, and a safe place for emergency personnel to recover during extended incidents.

02
◆

Traffic & scene
support

Managing vehicle flow, creating safer work zones, and preserving clear access for emergency apparatus.

03
⌂

Family
assistance

Connecting residents affected by fire or disaster with temporary lodging, essential supplies, clothing, and recovery resources.

Van Wert CERT volunteers directing vehicles safely in rainy conditionsIN THE FIELD / VAN WERT COUNTY

Ready to respond

Training turns a willing neighbor into a capable teammate.

No emergency-services background is required. CERT training covers disaster preparedness, team organization, basic first aid, fire safety, and other practical response skills.

  • ✓ Learn useful, hands-on skills
  • ✓ Serve alongside local responders
  • ✓ Make Van Wert County more resilient
Ask about the next class →

CERT in action

Ready in every
kind of moment.

From a winter fire scene to a summer community event, our volunteers show up prepared to support Van Wert County.

Van Wert CERT response vehicles supporting firefighters at a nighttime winter incident
Incident supportWorking alongside local first responders
Community members visiting a Van Wert CERT vehicle at a public event
Community outreachSharing preparedness with neighbors
Van Wert CERT members learning traffic and crowd management in a classroom
Ongoing trainingBuilding skills before they are needed
Members of the Van Wert County Community Emergency Response Team
One local teamVolunteer powered. Community focused.

Start at home

Ready starts before
the sirens.

Three simple steps can make a major difference for your household when normal services are disrupted.

01

Make a plan

Choose meeting places, contacts, and evacuation routes for everyone in your household.

02

Build a kit

Keep water, food, medicine, lights, and key documents ready for at least three days.

03

Stay informed

Know how local alerts reach you and follow directions from Van Wert County officials.

Step forward

Your community
needs people
like you.

Ready to learn more?

Tell us you’re interested in volunteering, training, or requesting CERT support.

EmailVWcert18@gmail.com↗Call419.623.1095↗
Find us1220 Lincoln Hwy.
Van Wert, OH 45832