This article discusses Monroe Community College's CERT (Community Emergency Response Team), a program designed to help neighborhoods and work sites prepare for effective disaster response through training and planning. The program requires 24 hours of theoretical and hands-on practice in self-help and mutual-aid emergency functions. CERT personnel serve as a support team to perform basic functions, allowing emergency services professionals such as paramedics to focus on more complex tasks, following a catastrophic natural disaster or terrorist attack. The training prepares participants to save lives and protect property at three levels: (1) for themselves and their families; (2) for their neighbors or work sites; and (3) for the community.