Podcasts about community emergency response team cert

In this episode of All Things Wildfire, the host welcomes Chin Thammasaengsri, a long-time member of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) in Los Angeles. Together, they discuss the critical role CERT plays in disaster preparedness and response, focusing on wildfires, earthquakes, and other emergencies. Chin shares insights into CERT's history, its three-fold mission of self-care, family preparedness, and community support, and practical strategies to engage with neighbors and build disaster resilience. He highlights personal stories and actionable advice, emphasizing the importance of preparation, teamwork, and communication during emergencies. Key Takeaways: CERT Overview: Established in 1985 by the Los Angeles Fire Department. Aims to train civilian volunteers to support themselves, their families, and their communities during disasters. Offers practical skills in first aid, evacuation, fire suppression, search and rescue, and communication. Three Pillars of CERT Training: Self-care: Being prepared with personal emergency supplies and knowledge. Family preparedness: Ensuring immediate family members are safe and supported. Community connection: Coordinating efforts with neighbors for collective disaster response. Lessons from Wildfire and Disaster Response: The emotional toll of disasters, such as survival guilt, underscores the value of community solidarity. Evacuation planning and multiple escape routes are critical in wildfire-prone areas. Maintaining open communication channels, such as two-way radios, ensures preparedness when traditional methods fail. First Aid and Common Injuries: Glass-related injuries, broken bones, and lacerations are common after earthquakes or wildfires. Basic disaster medical training and a well-stocked first-aid kit are essential. Community Engagement: Start small by connecting with a few committed neighbors to build awareness. Use tools like flyers, educational talks, and apps like Watch Duty for wildfire alerts to foster preparedness. Encourage a culture of mutual support and proactive planning. Practical Tools: Two-way radios (FRS/GMRS) for reliable neighborhood communication. Emergency supplies such as N95 masks, first-aid kits, and evacuation plans. Show Notes: Guest: Chin Thammasaengsri, Community Emergency Response Team member. Contact Chin: Email at cert68chin@gmail.com. Resources Mentioned: Watch Duty app for wildfire alerts. CERT training programs (local fire departments or emergency management offices). American Red Cross and American Heart Association for CPR and first-aid certifications. FRS/GMRS radios available at Walmart or Best Buy. Actionable Steps for Listeners: Take CERT Training: Find a local CERT program to learn essential disaster response skills. Prepare Emergency Kits: Stock your home with first-aid supplies, N95 masks, radios, and evacuation essentials. Engage Your Community: Start conversations about disaster planning with neighbors and join or form local preparedness groups. Download Preparedness Apps: Stay informed with apps like Watch Duty for real-time wildfire alerts. Disaster preparedness starts with individual action but thrives through community collaboration. Take the time to know your neighbors, plan together, and be ready to support one another when emergencies arise. Be sure to subscribe and follow All Things Wildfire for more expert insights on protecting your property and community. Subscribe for more wildfire updates and tips on protecting your home against disaster. Whether you're passionate about environmental sustainability, intrigued by technological advancements, or simply eager to learn about the latest developments in wildfire prevention, this episode is a must-listen.  

Mike Connolly discusses Ashland's recruiting efforts for its Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and the upcoming October training by Ashland Fire & Rescue.

In today's episode, Sheriff Mikesell, Lieutenant Bunting talk, and Tommy Allen talk about community service, community programs, and volunteering. For more information on Life Trak: https://www.tellercounty.gov/Life-Trak To request Directed Patrol (house checks while you are away): https://www.tellercounty.gov/667/Request-a-House-Check-or-Traffic-Patrol For information on how to join a TCSO volunteer organization: https://www.tellercounty.gov/259/Get-Involved For more information on applying to become a deputy with TCSO: https://www.tellercounty.gov/Application-Process-Careers More information on the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) can be found at the bottom of the Sheriff's main webpage: https://www.tellercounty.gov/207/Teller-County-Sheriffs-Office

What happens when disaster strikes? Do you know what your role is in an emergency? In today's introductory episode of Season 12, First Case co-hosts Melanie and Chris kick off our season on Disaster Preparedness by sharing their own experiences of the unexpected. Tune in as Chris shares about her experience with Hurricane Harvey as the Medical Liaison for Ellis County, TX, Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), and as Melanie shares her own experience with a workplace shooting. There are lessons to be learned from each experience, and ways that we can learn and plan so that we're prepared for any future event. Whether we find ourselves in the middle of a natural disaster or we're involved in an act of violence, our preparation and readiness are what help us find success in any emergency situation. So, stay tuned for this exciting first episode of Season 12: Disaster Alert! Love our show? Download our First Case mobile app on:

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program offers a consistent, nationwide approach to volunteer training and organization that professional responders can rely on during a disaster. On the FEMA Preparedness Community, you can search for a program, register your group, and stay connected in your neighborhood! Please tune in to our guest, Frances Whalen, NEMBA, ABCP, a CERT specialist, to learn about CERT!What we discuss:CERT Trainings, Portal, and CommunityFinding a local CERTAnnual CERT Conference Resources from this episode:FEMA CERT: https://community.fema.gov/PreparednessCommunity/s/welcome-to-cert? Get #Social: Substack Newsletter  |  https://iaemr9.substack.com/LinkedIn  |  https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/iaem-usa-region-9Twitter |  https://twitter.com/iaemr9Facebook  | https://www.facebook.com/IAEMR9Instagram  | https://www.instagram.com/iaemr9/

Delano Hunter is the Acting Director of the DC Department of General Services. Director Hunter is a long-serving member of the Bowser Administration, serving in senior leadership roles in four different agencies. During his tenure at the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), Director Hunter managed a comprehensive recreation system with a combined operating and capital budget of $218 million, more than 1,000 employees, and a diverse portfolio of 104 recreation facilities, 930 acres of green space, and 212 fields and playgrounds. DPR served more than 2 million visitors annually through expanded programming and facility access and was ranked the best park system by Trust for Public Land in 2021 and 2022. Before serving at DPR, he served as Chief Service Officer of the Mayor's Office of Volunteerism and Partnerships (Serve DC). During Director Hunter's time at Serve DC, the agency's federal grant funding increased by nearly 40%, and over 12,000 residents and stakeholders were engaged each year, participating in innovative emergency preparedness trainings, including Active Shooter Response, First Aid/CPR/AED, and the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). Throughout Director Hunter's tenure, Serve DC's oversight of AmeriCorps DC was an essential agency responsibility. The nationwide service program addresses critical community needs, including increasing academic achievement, combating poverty, providing mentorships, and sustaining national parks. Before his public service career in the District government, Mr. Hunter worked within the Retail Development Program for Nike Inc. in Beaverton, Oregon. While at Nike, Mr. Hunter co-founded the Nike Product Creation Experience (NPCE). The mentoring program enabled high school students to gain exposure to product development and marketing from industry professionals. In 2008, Mr. Hunter was recognized as the Nike Black Employee Network Person of the Year. Mr. Hunter is a native Washingtonian and Spingarn Senior High School graduate. He attended Delaware State University, where he graduated summa cum laude with a degree in Business Management. Mr. Hunter went on to earn his MBA from the Johns Hopkins University Carey School of Business. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dreamsbyanymeans/message

Welcome to “Live Well and Thrive,” a podcast recognizing the hard work, dedication, and diversity of our team at Kaiser Permanente Northern California. I'm your host Carrie Owen Plietz. Today we're going to wrestle with a difficult topic – wildfire and disaster preparedness. Wildfires have touched us all, including today's guests in both personal and professional ways. We are in a new reality where wildfires will occur with increasing severity and frequency. How can we be proactive to make sure our families and communities are prepared so that we can care for others? This is a learning curve we are all on together and today's guests will help illuminate this question with their deep experience. I'm delighted to have Dr. Mary Meyer, ED physician at Walnut Creek who also earned an MPH later in her career. Mary has a wealth of experience, has worked internationally and is currently bridging her work in the emerging department with her public health background to help KP better prepare our employees and facilities. We are also joined by Shakiara Kitchen, Regional Practice Specialist in Emergency Management, at KP. Shakiara works to ensure our operations and clinical needs are met simultaneously in any eventuality. As always, I invite you to share what's on your mind, ask a question or suggest a topic or guest. Send it to LiveWell&Thrive@kp.org. And whether you're listening on your commute or during a down moment, keep those comments coming. Additional Resources:American Red Cross Emergency Preparedness Checklist:https://www.redcross.org/content/dam/redcross/atg/Chapters/Division_1_-_Media/Denver/Denver_-_PDFs/EmergencyPreparednessChecklist.pdfNixle Alert System: https://www.nixle.com/ Community Emergency Response Team (CERT):https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/individuals-communities/preparedness-activities-webinars/community-emergency-response-teamEmergency Education, Exercises, Drills, and Training (kp.org):https://kplearn.kp.org/Saba/Web_spf/NA5P2PRD001/app/me/learningeventdetail/cours000000000087635;spf-url=common%2Fledetail%2Fcours000000000087635 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we talk with Deputy Fire Chief Jay Sumerlin about two new programs the Fire Department has launched to help our community in an emergency.  CERT, the community emergency response team, is a FEMA-backed volunteer-based program for community members to learn key skills and techniques for use in an emergency.  First aid, light rescue, wound care, and fire suppression are all part of the curriculum to turn everyday citizens into the neighbor you want to know most.Community Connect is a new online portal that allows YOU to share critical information about your family, your pets, and your home with firefighters in an emergency.  This is a secure system, shared only with fire professionals, that gives them critical information when responding to your home. This optional program helps firefighters with the information they wouldn't otherwise know - like fuse box locations, water shut-off valves, and if members of your family have any mobility issues.Both of these programs are completely free and are designed to make our community safer.  Both are linked in the show notes below if you want more information or would like to sign up.Learn more about Community Connect>>Learn more about the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)>>Read the transcript>>Contact the City of Redding Podcast Team Email us at podcast@cityofredding.org Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Love the podcast? The best way to spread the word is to rate and review!

Here's your top news and highlights for the week of January 20:    Upcoming events:    Public Town Hall meeting next Thursday, January 26th at 6:30 pm at the RCC. If you can't make it in person, be sure to tune into our Facebook page to watch it live and ask your questions there too. More info here:https://bit.ly/3Xyg0e0    Follow us on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/CityofRowlettTexas  On Saturday, January 28th Parks and Rec are hosting its annual Little Sweet Hearts Dance and this year's theme is Sock Hop! Get your tickets now before they sell out! You can call the RCC at 972-412-6170 or register online here: https://bit.ly/3ib3Fx6    The Rowlett Police Department has announced that they're hosting their Citizens Police Academy again! The class is limited to 25 people, so get your applications in soon! The program begins on February 23rd. More info here: https://bit.ly/3XnROv5    The Rowlett Citizen Corps Council (RCCC) are sponsoring another two-day Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training on February 4th & 11th. Visit rowlettcert.com to register and for more info.   The library is hosting a Trivia Night on Monday, January 23rd @ 6:30pm and This month's topic is “Back to the 90s.”   Here are some highlights that happened this week:    At this week's City Council meeting, January was recognized by proclamation as Fire Fighter Cancer Awareness Month. We are honored to bring more public awareness to occupational cancer in the fire service. Learn more here: https://bit.ly/3IVjAL1    Also at this week's City Council meeting… we celebrated the service of Michael Gallops (Captain, U.S. Air Force) by honoring and recognizing him as our 25th Rowlett Vet! We hope you will join us as we welcome Michael Gallops into the ranks of our Rowlett Vets! More info here: https://bit.ly/3XCO20s    And If you're interested in running for City Council, the filing period began this week and ends February 17. If you have any questions or need assistance please contact the Office of the City Secretary. The election is on May 6th! More info here: https://bit.ly/3Hd5rYk    If you wish to suggest a topic, guest, or have a question- Please email Hannah Rabalais at podcast@rowlett.com or reach out online:    rowlett.com/podcast    https://www.facebook.com/CityofRowlettTexas    https://www.youtube.com/user/RowlettTexasVideo    https://www.instagram.com/cityofrowletttexas    https://twitter.com/RowlettTexas    https://www.linkedin.com/company/city-of-rowlett/ 

Here's your top news and highlights for the week of January 13:    Monday, January 16 is Martin Luther King Jr, Day! City of Rowlett facilities, including City Hall, Municipal Court, Rowlett Community Centre, Library and the Animal Shelter will be closed. FCC trash services will also be postponed by one day. Our Rowlett Diversity Equity and Inclusion Commission is hosting a community event and food drive on January 16 from 10am-1pm! You're invited to come out to the lawn on Main street for food trucks, readings from local children and a whole bunch more.  More info can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/RowlettDEIC  We finally released another episode of the My Rowlett Podcast featuring Daniel Cabuya, who is the Winter 2022/2023 Spirit of Rowlett Award Winner! You can listen to the My Rowlett Podcast on your favorite podcast platform or you can watch it on our YouTube channel! I can't wait for you to listen!  More info here: rowlett.com/podcast   The Rowlett Citizen Corps Council (RCCC) recently announced that they are  sponsoring another two-day Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training on Februaury 4th & 11th. This is a great opportunity if you're interested in serving your community during a natural or man-made disaster. Visit rowlettcert.com to register and for more info.  Applications are open for the Gary Alexander Arts in Education Grant! The Rowlett Arts and Humanities Commission sponsors mini "Arts in Education" grants which are available to public and private schools in the City of Rowlett. More info here: https://bit.ly/3kdXTeZ During this year's Winter Reading Program, 336 people read more than 113,250 minutes. That's over 1,887 hours! Way to go, readers! We'll see you all again for another reading challenge, starting June 2023!    And finally, don't forget we have our Town Hall upcoming up on January 26th! We hope to see you there.  More info here:https://bit.ly/3iz5S5D    If you wish to suggest a topic, guest, or have a question- Please email Hannah Rabalais at podcast@rowlett.com or reach out online:    rowlett.com/podcast    https://www.facebook.com/CityofRowlettTexas    https://www.youtube.com/user/RowlettTexasVideo    https://www.instagram.com/cityofrowletttexas    https://twitter.com/RowlettTexas    https://www.linkedin.com/company/city-of-rowlett/ 

In episode 12 of the Plano Library Speaks podcast, we talk with Director of Emergency Management Carrie Little about Preparedness Month and Librarian Bethany Ross about the Connecting Seniors program.   Preparedness Month:   City of Plano - Emergency Management Department - Sign up for local alerts, join the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and more   Know What 2 Do - Look at the "Make a Plan" and "Build a Kit" to be prepared   Register for the Are You Financially Ready for a Disaster? webinar presented by Bank of America on Thursday, September 29 at 6:30pm - Register here Learn steps you can take to shore up your finances ahead of and after a natural disaster to avoid long-term damage   Connecting Seniors: Connecting Seniors is a monthly social program held at Haggard Library and virtually. Reminisce about past times through facilitated conversation and an exchange of experiences. Register once and use the same link to join virtually each month! Connecting Seniors meets on the first Thursday of the month.   Check the library's website for the Connecting Seniors schedule and additional programs just for seniors.

Okay, okay, last year's hurricane episode was for the old timers but this year we have many, many new residents (even new folks from other places in Florida) that might not know what to expect in terms of how the Farms reacts to major hurricane forces. This is the episode for you because we have our local treasure Janet Burfield the President of C.E.R.T. the Jupiter Farms Community Emergency Response Team to tell us what we need to know as hurricane season 2022 is upon us. Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is in partnership between Homeland Security and the public.  CERT became a national program in 1993.  CERT prepares volunteers for disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact our area.Jupiter Farms CERT is a 501 © (3) not for profit organization.  We meet 3 times per year with no dues.  Our next meeting is June 14th at 7 pm at the Jupiter Farms Park Pavilion.  We are active at sharing information about storms developing and those that may strike our area with pertinent information before and after a storm.  Hurricane Season runs from June 1st to November 30th.  This may change as storms have been developing earlier in May for the past 6 years.Email C.E.R.T.  jfcert@yahoo.comNext Meeting – June 14th (Tuesday) @ 7 p.m. at the Jupiter Farms Park PavilionHurricane Tracking Information WebsitesNational Hurricane Center (NHC) http://nhc.noaa.govWeather Predication Center (WPC) http://wpc.ncep.noaa.govWeather Underground www.Wunderground.com/hurricaneHam Radio Information: Bert Moreschi – JTRG President Email - Aug77@att.netHam Radio testing is available throughout the year.  Please contact Bert for more information and testing dates. Governor DeSantis signed a tax relief bill in early May.  Be sure to research these tax holidays for their limitations.  Some of the upcoming tax relief programs are:The Disaster Preparedness tax holiday runs from May 14 until August 14th.  Reinforce Your Home tax break on impact resistant doors, windows, and garage doors for a 2 year period beginning July 1st.The Atlantic Hurricane Season is projected to be above normal season similar to the 2021 Hurricane Season.  This will be the 7th year in a row for a more active season.  We are under a La Nina influence as far as water temperatures.  After a storm passes our area, please use extreme caution when going out in your yard.  There most likely will be standing water which could have live power lines, snakes, red ant piles and other things that you won't want to step on.  More deaths are caused after storms than during a storm from careless actions.  So be prepared ahead of the storm season, stay inside during the storm, and be extremely careful venturing outside of your house after a storm.  If you feel safe, please check on your neighbors to make sure they weathered the storm safely.Be weather wise and alert!Support the show

In episode 37, I talk with K6ABJ Aaron, an active ham who is a comms lead for his local Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). In all the episodes so far, I have not really focused with someone who is a leader for non-ham volunteer emergency response teams. Get his interesting perspective in light of the fires and emergency prep he's seen. Links: FEMA Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program: https://www.ready.gov/cert El Dorado County Neighborhood Radio Watch: http://edcarc.net/index.php/neighborhood-radio-watch/what-is-neighborhood-radio-watch If you're using Apple Podcasts, please leave a review of this podcast! Also, please send in your podcast topic ideas! You can send messages back to AD6DM™ Hamdom Thoughts: Visit https://anchor.fm/ad6dm and hit the "Message" button to record your messages right from your computer or phone. Your comments or questions might even end up on the next episode! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/ad6dm/message

In honor of National Preparedness Month, we are rereleasing Episode 16 of City Focus, featuring Emergency Manager for the City of Salem, Greg Walsh and Salem CERT Senior Trainer and Logistics Officer, Terry Pickett. National Preparedness Month is recognized each September to promote family and community disaster and emergency planning now and throughout the year. We discuss how the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program trains volunteers to assist communities when a disastrous event overwhelms or delays the community’s professional response. Show notes: National Preparedness Month Email Greg Walsh   Emergency Preparedness PowerPoint Presentation What is Moulage training? https://www.facebook.com/SalemCERT/ https://www.cityofsalem.net/Pages/sign-up-for-cert-training.aspx https://www.fema.gov/ https://www.publicalerts.org/community-emergency-response-teams-cert-neighborhood-emergency-teams-net https://www.co.marion.or.us/PW/EmergencyManagement/CCC/Pages/cert.aspx https://www.ready.gov/community-emergency-response-team

On this episode, I’m joined in the studio by two experts in emergency preparedness for a conversation about CERT and how it partners with cities throughout Oregon. This program was designed as a grassroots initiative and specifically structured so that local and state program managers have the flexibility to form their programs in the way that best suits their communities. My first guest is Emergency Manager for the City of Salem, Gregory Walsh and then in the second half of this episode, I am joined by Senior Trainer and Logistics Officer for Salem CERT, Terry Pickett. We discuss how the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program trains volunteers to assist communities when a disastrous event overwhelms or delays the community’s professional response. Show notes: Email Greg Walsh   Emergency Preparedness PowerPoint Presentation What is Moulage training? https://www.facebook.com/SalemCERT/ https://www.cityofsalem.net/Pages/sign-up-for-cert-training.aspx https://www.fema.gov/ https://www.publicalerts.org/community-emergency-response-teams-cert-neighborhood-emergency-teams-net https://www.co.marion.or.us/PW/EmergencyManagement/CCC/Pages/cert.aspx https://www.ready.gov/community-emergency-response-team

Anthony Rodriguez has been working in the Santa Barbara community and is a fierce advocate for suicide prevention. He is co-founder of Santa Barbara Response Network and co-chair of the local Out of the Darkness Walks. Rodriguez empowers our community when disaster strikes by conducting Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) trainings. Shedding light on how to prevent suicide through sharing his own story.

Volunteers are a vital component of emergency management's response and recovery. This week Ed and Bill chat with Ken Anderson. Sr, South San Francisco FD's Emergency Services Manager, who is in charge of the local Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).

Volunteering is good for you, and it is good for your City! In honor of National Volunteer Week, “Prep Talk” hosts chatted with Paula Gavin, NYC Service chief service officer, and Jonas Ballreich, deputy director for Community Resilience at NYC Emergency Management about the importance of volunteers before and during emergencies. You will also hear from two Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) volunteers who help to build stronger, more resilient communities through their service. Read full transcript: https://on.nyc.gov/preptalk9

On this edition of the “Health and Safety” podcast, learn about carbon monoxide (CO) and Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training.

On this edition of the “Health and Safety” podcast, learn about carbon monoxide (CO) and Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training.

Smoke Alarm, Fire Escape Plan, Drug Overdose, Zika, Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).

Smoke Alarm, Fire Escape Plan, Drug Overdose, Zika, Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).

The Newsletter for the City of Ann Arbor, Mich. • September 2012  • Volume 6 • Number 9A2 Open City Hall debutsAnn Arbor residents have a new way to share feedback with city staff and Council members with the debut of A2 Open City Hall. This new online forum will feature questions about specific projects and initiatives on a regular basis, inviting the public to give input from the convenience of their keyboards. The first topic on A2 Open City Hall is already underway and focuses on changes residents would like to see along the South State Street Corridor. Additional topics will be launched this fall.Fire restructure proposal meetings In March, Fire Chief Chuck Hubbard presented a fire department restructuring proposal to City Council, which would position the department to operate out of three fire stations. One station would be located on the north side of the city (Station 5), one on the south side of the city (Station 2) and one in downtown Ann Arbor (Station 1). However, before this proposal is considered further, community meetings have been scheduled in each of the city's five wards to give citizens the opportunity to hear more about the fire restructure proposal and ask specific questions pertaining to fire suppression coverage. Please consider attending one of these forums.Tuesday, Sept. 18, 6–8 p.m., Cobblestone Farm, 2781 Packard Road.Wednesday, Sept. 19, 6–8 p.m., Ann Arbor Senior Center, 1320 Baldwin Ave.   Thursday, Sept. 20, 6–8 p.m., Ann Arbor District Library Downtown Branch, 343 S. Fifth Ave., conference room A.    Tuesday, Sept. 25, 6–8 p.m. Ann Arbor District Library Traverwood Branch, 3333 Traverwood Drive, program room.Wednesday, Sept. 26, 6–8 p.m., Community Television Network, 2805 S. Industrial, Suite 200. This meeting will be taped and later replayed on CTN Channel 19 and available online to view on demand. More information about the fire restructure proposal is available on the city website. Be street savvyThe streets of Ann Arbor are again bustling with vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians as schools are back in session, and summer vacations have come to a close. Check out the rules-of-the-road reminders and resources on the city's “walk bike drive” Web page to help ensure safe travels for all, including: For those on foot, cross at marked crosswalks, and make sure to give motorists enough time to see you and stop.For bicyclists, ride on the road when possible — and obey the traffic signals. Use bike lanes when available.For motorists, be extra alert at crosswalks, and stop when pedestrians are present to cross. Drivers should also safely give bicyclists room on the road, ideally 3–4 feet of space.Fall/Winter registration now openRegistration for Ann Arbor Parks and Recreation fall/winter classes is now open. Find the new, 56-page, color guide at Larcom City Hall, local library branches, Ann Arbor Parks and Recreation Customer Service Center (at Cobblestone Farm, 2781 Packard Road) and all parks and recreation facilities. It's also posted on the parks website as a PDF that you can view or download. Classes include indoor swim lessons at Mack Pool, instructional skating, beginning hockey skills, yoga, cultural arts programs at the senior center and much more. The guide also features events at the canoe liveries and Leslie Science & Nature Center. Sign up is easy and convenient. Register in person, or use the online registration system.Solid waste plan updateThe City of Ann Arbor five-year Solid Waste Management Plan updating process is underway.  An advisory committee representing Ann Arbor residents, businesses, agencies and the University of Michigan has been working with staff, City Council, and city environmental commissioners over the last year to update the plan. Opportunities for residents to participate are now being offered as well.Take the solid waste planning survey online or use the printed version in the WasteWatcher newsletter (with a prepaid return mailer) that is delivered to all city residential addresses in September. All residential survey participants have the option to include their address to be eligible for three random drawings for a $50 gift certificate to a local restaurant or grocery store of your choice, or a $50 certificate for an Argo Livery canoe rental or from iTunes. Just respond by Friday, Oct. 5, 2012, to be included in the survey summary and prize drawings.After the survey is closed and tabulated, Solid Waste Management Plan updating process public forums and hearings will be held. The meetings will provide opportunities for small-group discussion about city solid waste program and policy areas, such as easier disposal options for specific materials, expanded recycling, waste-reduction strategies, composting expansion and Drop-off Station operations. Thursday, Oct. 18, 6:30–8:30 p.m. Ann Arbor District Library Traverwood Branch, 3333 Traverwood Drive.Tuesday, Oct. 30, 6:30–8:30 p.m. Community Television Network studio, 2805 S. Industrial. (The draft  Solid Waste Management Plan presentation and discussion group summaries will be taped for replay.)Public hearings will be held at Environmental Commission and City Council meetings, tentatively in December. Please visit the Solid Waste Management Plan Five-year Update Web page for project updates.CTN hours changeBeginning Sept. 1, Community Television Network will have new facility hours for the public and education channels. The new hours are:Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 11 a.m.–9 p.m.Wednesday: 4–9 p.m.CTN is located at 2805 S. Industrial Highway, suite 200, in Ann Arbor. Go online for more information. CERT Program registrationThe Ann Arbor Police Department Office of Emergency Management in conjunction with the Washtenaw County Emergency Management Division is accepting applications for the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training program. The application can be found online, or call Crime Prevention Specialist Adele El-Ayoubi, ICPS, with the Ann Arbor Police Department at 734.794.6933. A background investigation will be conducted on all applicants. The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 14. The training will be held every Tuesday from Sept. 25 to Nov. 6, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Coursework is a combination of classroom sessions and hands-on training in scene assessment, fire safety, emergency medical response, team organization, disaster medical operations and light search and rescue. Attendance at all classes is required for certificate completion.The CERT program educates residents about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact Washtenaw County and trains participants in basic disaster response skills. Using the training learned in the classroom and during exercises, CERT members can assist neighbors or fellow employees following an event when professional responders are not immediately available to help. CERT members also are encouraged to support emergency response agencies by taking a more active role in emergency preparedness projects in their community.A2 passes 2,000 mark with latest LED streetlightsAnn Arbor was one of the first cities in the world to convert conventional streetlights to light emitting diodes (LEDs) in an effort to contain costs, save energy and support Mayor Hieftje's Energy Challengeto reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the community. Since it began in 2007/2008, cities from across the country and the world are now moving to LEDs. Ann Arbor's latest batch of LEDs, funded through the U.S. Department of Energy's Energy Efficiency & Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) program, will go up at the Broadway Bridge, nearly completing the conversion of the over 2,000 city-owned streetlights. The Lumecon brand “Ring of Fire” LED series replicates the decorative acorn style of the lights now seen along Broadway Bridge. Detroit Edison owns and operates another 5,000-plus streetlights in Ann Arbor, and is beginning to pilot more LEDs, especially as they look to replace mercury-vapor streetlights that will no longer be manufactured.LED streetlights in the downtown, arterial streets and in neighborhoods use on average about half of the electricity of conventional lights and are reducing around 700,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) per year — or the equivalent annual electricity usage of 60 households. Two-thirds or more of the cost savings in converting city-owned lights to LEDs is in the deferred cost of not having to maintain the fixture (work hours to replace the light and components like ballasts and igniters). LEDs manufactured today are expected to last 10 times longer, if not more, than their metal halide, sodium and mercury-based predecessors. The long life of LEDs frees up city labor hours or the need to hire outside support to operate, maintain and replace fixtures. LEDs also contain zero mercury. Each LED fixture saves around $90 per year in energy and avoided maintenance, and, with over 2,000 lights, that is over $180,000 per year in potential costs. Previous grant support from the Downtown Development Authority for the nearly 1,000 downtown decorative globe lights, and federal grants for much of the remaining LED streetlights, have made this innovative energy solution a reality.Ann Arbor assists USDOT in vehicle crash-avoidance pilotAccording to the U.S. Department of Transportation, nearly 3,000 cars, trucks and buses equipped with “connected” Wi-Fi technology will enable vehicles and infrastructure throughout Ann Arbor to “talk” to each other, in real time. This initiative kicked off last month as part of a year-long safety pilot project by the USDOT. This innovative technology is designed to help avoid crashes and improve traffic flow.U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood recently joined elected officials and industry and community leaders on the University of Michigan campus to launch the second phase of the safety pilot, the largest road test to date of connected vehicle crash-avoidance technology. This study was also made possible with the assistance of City of Ann Arbor information technology and signs and signals staff who assisted USDOT and U-M's Transportation Research Institute with this first-of-its-kind test of connected vehicle technology in the real world. The test cars, trucks and buses, most of which have been supplied by volunteer participants, are equipped with vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communication devices that will gather extensive data about system operability and its effectiveness at reducing crashes. Read more about the project on the USDOT website. WATS public meetingThe Washtenaw Area Transportation Study (WATS) is hosting public meetings to discuss the 2040 Long-range Plan for Washtenaw County. On Wednesday, Sept. 12, 4–6 p.m., WATS will discuss the community values survey results and present draft goals and objectives for the plan. The meeting will take place at Larcom City Hall, 301 E. Huron St., in the Council chambers on the second floor. Visit the WATS website for more information on this initiative. Connecting William StreetJoin the Connecting William Street conversation. The Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority is seeking input to shape the future of five city-owned sites downtown: the Library Lane lot, the Fifth and William lot, the ground floor of the Fourth and William Parking Structure, the Main and William lot, and the Ashley and William lot. Community survey feedback and a market analysis have been used to begin crafting strategies for transforming these five parking areas into uses that will better serve the community. Now, your help is needed to shape a more specific plan. Please join the community conversation, and provide input to help frame development strategies for these sites.To participate via an online venue, please pre register for a webinar taking place Wednesday, Sept. 5, 7–8 p.m.  Space is limited, but more dates will be added as the meeting fills. To participate in person, a public meeting is scheduled for Monday, Sept. 10, noon–1:30 p.m. at the Ann Arbor District Library Downtown Branch multipurpose room, 343 S. Fifth Ave.  Please pre register for this meeting.  At these events, the DDA will present an overview of the project and possible development scenarios. Please select the time and venue that works best for you. The same information will be provided at both the webinar and public meeting.Better Buildings for Michigan ProgramWith winter just a few months away (believe it or not), now is the ideal time to make sure your home has all the proper energy-efficient enhancements. This otherwise daunting task has just gotten a little easier, thanks to the Southeast Michigan Regional Energy Office (SEMREO).  The SEMREO Better Buildings for Michigan Program offers incentives and rebates for home energy improvements, including double the current rebates offered by DTE (up to $3,000). And the program has recently expanded, making residents of Ann Arbor and all of Washtenaw County eligible. Better Buildings for Michigan uses a community approach to deliver energy efficiency improvements for homes and businesses by providing access to incentives and affordable loans. The program is supported by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) and developed by the Michigan Energy Office; Michigan Saves; the City of Grand Rapids; the Economic Development Corporation of the City of Detroit; and the Southeast Michigan Regional Energy Office.The Better Buildings for Michigan Program is available for a limited time. Go online for more information.  High-rise lighting reminderAnn Arbor again joins other cities in helping migrating birds have a “Safe Passage” during seasonal migrations. From the middle of August through the end of October, migrating birds are flying over Ann Arbor on their way south from their northern breeding grounds. These birds are at risk of dying when they become confused at night by lighted windows of tall buildings. On clear nights, birds navigate by the stars, but on cloudy and foggy nights, they attempt to navigate using the lights of tall buildings. Birds either crash into lit windows or endlessly circle buildings until they are exhausted. Please ask occupants on floors five and above of your building to join the “Safe Passage” effort by pulling the drapes or closing the shades on windows in lit rooms between 11 p.m. and dawn. (These actions may help save energy, too.) For details, please see “safe passage" online.  In this issue: A2 Open City Hall * Fire restructure proposal meetings * Street safety * Fall/winter registration * Solid waste plan update * CTN hours change *  CERT program registration * LED streetlights * USDOT vehicle crash-avoidance pilot * WATS public meetings * Connecting William Street * Better Buildings for Michigan Program * High-rise lighting reminder * Dog Swim * West Nile Virus * Greenbelt Bus Tour * Game day traffic and parking * Urban and Community Forest Management Plan * Fall golf events *Golf for a good cause  * SEMCOG Regional Transportation Plan * Dates to rememberDog SwimAfter Buhr Park Outdoor Poolcloses for the season, it's your four-footed friend's turn to go for a swim. Register today for the annual dog swim, taking place Wednesday and Thursday, Sept. 5 and 6, from 3 to 8 p.m. Pre registration is required, and spaces go quickly. For one dog, the fee is $7.50/$6 for residents; for a second dog, the fee is an additional $3.75/$3 for residents. Call today:734.794.6234. Buhr Park Pool is located at 2751 Packard Road.  Prevent West Nile VirusWest Nile Virus cases are on the rise both nationally and in Michigan. And as Labor Day weekend is about to begin, Michigan residents are urged to take precautions against mosquitoes while spending time outdoors. A few simple steps can help prevent mosquito bites and potentially contracting West Nile Virus (WNV).Apply insect repellents that contain the active ingredient DEET, or other EPA approved repellent to exposed skin or clothing, especially during peak mosquito activity periods such as dusk and dawn. Maintain window and door screening to help keep mosquitoes outside. Empty water from mosquito-breeding sites such as buckets, unused kiddy pools or similar sites where mosquitoes lay eggs. Wear light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors. The unusually hot and dry summer has favored the mosquitoes that transmit WNV. These same conditions have led to a reduction in the number of "nuisance" mosquitoes, which are more abundant during wet summers. WNV-carrying mosquitoes breed in small collections of stagnant water, are common around people's homes and often bite people indoors. While few mosquitoes may be noticed outdoors, those that are present and biting are likely to be the type that potentially carry WNV.Most people bitten by a WNV-infected mosquito show no symptoms of illness. However, some become sick three to 15 days after exposure. WNV can cause serious neurological illnesses, such as meningitis and encephalitis and can have long-term health consequences. People 50 and older as well as people with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to severe WNV disease symptoms.When you're running out the door, remember to grab not only your sunscreen, but your insect repellent too. Go online  for more information and surveillance activity updates about WNV.All aboard the Greenbelt Bus Tour!Tour protected farm and open space properties, and learn about the Greenbelt Program, local agriculture and talk with local farmers during the 2012 Greenbelt Bus Tour on Saturday, Sept. 22. The tour's air-conditioned, luxury motor coach will depart at 10 a.m. from the 3700 Plymouth Road Park and Ride, and will return at 1 p.m. Light refreshments will be served.Pre registration is going on now, and closes on Friday, Sept. 14. The cost is $10 per person. To register, contact  Ginny T

Our "Community Matters" special guest was Mark Legassie, Chair of the Arroyo Seco Neighborhood Council ad hoc Public Safety Committee. The committee has a unique event planned, a drill for the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) members. CERT programs exist across the country, and are run under the Fire Departments. We'll also ask Mark to talk about his acquisition of public safety Neighborhood Watch signs. Please see: http://www.HermonLA.org/CERT_Drill.html