Tualatin CIO President’s Report: What’s in Your Go-Bag?

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Tualatin’s Community Involvement Organizations (CIOs) support CERT training. Why? Nearly every day, the news reminds us how quickly life can change. Firestorms, severe wind events that knock out power for days, and flooding caused by atmospheric rivers are no longer rare — they’re becoming part of our reality. The good news? A little preparation goes a long way, and knowing your neighbors during that critical time can be lifesaving.

Taking time now to prepare your home and assemble a Go-Bag can make all the difference if disaster strikes. A well-stocked Go-Bag helps ensure your family has the essentials to stay fed, warm, and safe if you need to evacuate or shelter in place. Being prepared doesn’t just protect your household — it gives you peace of mind and the ability to help neighbors until first responders arrive.

That’s where Tualatin CERT comes in.

The Tualatin Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) trains local volunteers to be ready when emergencies happen. CERT members learn how to prepare for disasters and understand the hazards most likely to impact our community. Training covers practical, lifesaving skills such as fire safety, light search and rescue, disaster medical operations, and effective team organization.  We also do neighborhood training upon request.

CERT is a nationally recognized FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) program. Participants are guided by trained instructors through a 25-hour course that focuses on what to do when emergency services may be delayed or unavailable. Ongoing practice and community service opportunities help CERT members stay sharp and ready to support their neighborhoods when it matters most.

You can help yourself, your family, and your neighbors become more prepared by joining the CERT team.

A free Spring 2026 CERT training class begins March 3rd. Classes meet Tuesday evenings for seven weeks, followed by a half-day practical training on Saturday, April 18th. Space is limited.

To enroll or learn more, contact tualatincertregistrar@gmail.com or visit www.tualatincert.org.

Preparation today means confidence tomorrow. Is your Go-Bag ready?

Go-Bag Checklist

Be ready for at least 72 hours

Basics

  • Water (1 gallon per person per day)
  • Non-perishable food
  • Manual can opener
  • Flashlight or headlamp
  • Extra batteries or power bank

Health & Safety

  • First aid kit
  • Prescription medications
  • Glasses or contacts
  • Face masks & hand sanitizer

Clothing & Comfort

  • Sturdy shoes
  • Weather-appropriate clothing
  • Blanket or sleeping bag

Tools & Communication

  • Phone charger & cable
  • Multi-tool or basic tools
  • Whistle
  • Local paper map

Important Items

  • Copies of ID & insurance
  • Emergency contact list
  • Cash (small bills)

Family Needs

  • Pet supplies
  • Infant/child items
  • Comfort item

Cert Training Dates

Spring 2026 CERT Class
📅 Starts March 3, 2026

🕕 Tuesday evenings for 7 weeks
🛠 Saturday, April 18 (half-day hands-on training)

✔ Free FEMA-certified training
✔ Space is limited

📧 tualatincertregistrar@gmail.com
🌐 www.tualatincert.org