PLACENTIA

A group of 17 residents and business owners underwent testing last week to obtain the Community Emergency Response Teams certification. It is the second group of residents trained this year.

The program, which began in 1998, has trained more than 100 people. During the six-week CERT course, participants learn the basics of how to survive the first 72 hours after a major natural disaster. Participants learn things such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation and also “cribbing,” a technique to remove people from under rubble.

At graduation, participants are given glasses, gloves and orange vests. The next group will begin training Feb. 28. To register call the Administration Department at (714) 993-8817 or pick up an application at City Hall, 401 E. Chapman Ave.