NYC Emergency Management's Conducts Full-Scale NYC CERT Exercise or Randall's Island

April 27, 2026
#11-26

NYC EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT CONDUCTS FULL-SCALE NYC CERT EXERCISE ON RANDALL'S ISLAND

CERT members participated in various drills in preparation for summer events in NYC

NEW YORK - The New York City Emergency Management Department (NYCEM) conducted a full-scale NYC Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) exercise at the New York City Fire Department's (FDNY) Training Academy on Randall's Island on Sunday, April 26, 2026. Instructors from NYCEM, FDNY, and the New York City Police Department (NYPD) facilitated and reviewed members' emergency preparedness and response skills in fire suppression, search and rescue, medical operations, and management during an emergency simulation. They also reviewed public transit safety measures with the FDNY's subway simulator. This training is in preparation for summer events such as the various FIFA '26 Fan Festivals, annual parades, and America250 celebrations. CERT members are volunteers who answer the call when needed for emergencies and planned events. See video and photos here.

"Since its launch in 2003, CERT members have been an integral part of New York City's readiness and response. These volunteers come from all walks of life, ready to answer the call whenever their community is in need, and we are tremendously proud of the work they do," said NYC Emergency Management Commissioner Christina Farrell. "We would like to thank the FDNY for allowing us to hold the exercise at the Fire Academy. Our continued partnership with the FDNY and the NYPD helps provide invaluable expertise and training. This exercise not only strengthens their skillset, but it also strengthens the resiliency of our city."

"In an emergency, our City's strength has always come from the people willing to step up when we need them. Our partnership with NYCEM and the NYPD to train our CERT teams means they are ready to respond, protect, and support their communities," said FDNY First Deputy Commissioner Daniel Flynn. "The FDNY is proud to help prepare them for the challenges ahead."

"Volunteers are an invaluable resource to New York City. For over 20 years, the NYC CERT program has been a key part of the city's commitment to prevention, community-centered preparedness, and equitable safety for all residents," said NYC Emergency Management Deputy Commissioner of Community Engagement Herman Schaffer. "Through this exercise, members gained more knowledge and practical tools to enhance our readiness during emergencies."

During the full-scale exercise, 99 CERT volunteers from across the city practiced their roles in several simulated disaster scenarios, including extinguishing live fires, performing basic triage, assisting with and removing "trapped victims," and transit safety protocols.

Since its launch, NYC CERT has supported the city through a wide range of emergencies, including severe weather and localized incidents that require steady, trained assistance. Local teams adjust their work to the specific needs of their neighborhoods, whether that means checking on vulnerable residents, helping manage public spaces during high activity periods, or supporting agency operations. Members also work throughout the year to strengthen community readiness. They share clear, practical guidance, help residents create household emergency plans, and introduce preparedness skills that can make a difference long before first responders arrive.

Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) in New York City

The New York City CERT program started in 2003 with 106 volunteers. Today, there are 24 divisions of credentialed volunteers covering all 59 NYC community boards. NYC CERT volunteers participate in an 11-session basic training program where they receive instruction from active members of the FDNY, FDNY-EMS, NYPD, and NYCEM. Volunteers are trained in disaster preparedness and basic emergency response skills, including fire safety, light search and rescue, disaster medical operations, and traffic management. Residents who want to learn more or explore volunteering can call 311 or visit NYC.gov/cert.

-30-

MEDIA CONTACT: NYCEM Press Office (718) 422-4888
STAY CONNECTED: @NotifyNYC (emergency notifications)
@nycemergencymgt (emergency preparedness info)
Facebook: /NYCemergencymanagement