For the safety of yourself and others you must follow the directions given to you by your assigned supervisor. During training events your supervisor will be a class instructor. In the event of an emergency, direction may come from a designated CERT member, fire or law enforcement supervisors or military personnel.

DO NOT call 9-1-1 to ask if CERT has been activated or requested. Standing Orders for current active CERT members will be to assist your home and family, then your immediate neighbors (the neighbors on your block or in visual site). Secure your home or workplace and then check your immediate neighborhood before reporting to the CERT activation location or staging area. Observe and take note of area damage, safety issues or concerns. Bring your personal response bag, IDENTIFICATION (Driver’s License or other form of picture ID), cell phone, and/or walkie-talkie, GMRS Radio, Amateur Radio or Family Service Radio (FSR).

Emergency response is a team effort. Acting independently of the coordinated emergency response plan can be dangerous and is not permitted. “Self-deploying” to any emergency response or event as a CERT member will result in your removal from the Bainbridge Island Community Emergency Response Team. If you find yourself in an emergency situation and have not yet been assigned a supervisor, it is critical that your decisions and actions be based on sound judgment and the need to save and protect lives, including your own and other rescue workers.

Emergency Workers are volunteers. CERT members are expected to act responsibly and treat all other volunteers, community members, and emergency response personnel with respect. Some members of law enforcement, fire, military, and local government or assisting response agencies may not be aware of CERT and may turn you away from the response area. CERT members shall report back to the CERT Command Post or assigned area location if resistance is encountered.

1) I will never act unprofessionally while representing the Bainbridge Island CERT or perform any conduct which would bring discredit upon the CERT organization.

2) I will never use or attempt to use Bainbridge Island CERT insignia, badge, decal, plaques, stickers or city issued equipment or any article giving reference to membership in Bainbridge Island CERT to influence and City Employee, Police or Fire official during a non- emergency situation without special approval by the Emergency Operations Manager of the City of Bainbridge Island.

3) I will provide no false or misleading information on the CERT application.

4) I will never be insubordinate to CERT management or City Officials during any event, disaster or drill except when compliance with orders would be criminal in nature or would endanger any person or property.

5) I will always treat my fellow CERT members, City Officials, City Employees, the public, and disaster victims with respect and dignity.

6) No weapons are allowed on any CERT activation, deployment, training, or exercise including those who have a concealed carry permit.

7) I understand that this is a volunteer position and I can be removed from the CERT program at any time, with or without cause.

There are many areas where Emergency Workers may be needed. CERT contact information for emergency response is vital to any emergency event. If you move or change phone numbers, increase your training level, or no longer have an interest in participating, please contact the Emergency Operations Coordinator/CERT Coordinator.

Failure to follow the Code of Conduct and act responsibly during any CERT event may result in participant being dismissed from Bainbridge Island Community Emergency Response Team.