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Arlington CERT
Foundation · Arlington, VA
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Resources

Be ready
before it happens.

Practical guides to help every Arlington household prepare. Downloadable materials to be supplied by ACFI.

Make a plan

How your household will communicate, meet, and act in an emergency.

Download the plan template →

Build a kit

Supplies every home should keep for at least three days.

Download the kit checklist →

Know your hazards

Local risks in Arlington and how to reduce them at home.

Read the hazards guide →

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In an emergency, always call 9-1-1. These resources support preparedness — they don't replace emergency services.
Preparedness Library

All Guides & Manuals

ACFI distributes informational preparedness booklets for the general public, along with restricted operational manuals for active CERT volunteers.

Family Disaster Preparedness Plan & Checklist

A printable step-by-step framework to map family evacuation plans, create local emergency folders, and arrange home hazard recovery backpacks.

Download ⬇️

CERT Disaster First Aid Field Manual

Quick reference cards for primary patient assessment, clearing airways, chest dressings, pressure bandages, and basic splints in emergency scenarios.

Download ⬇️

Arlington CERT Volunteer Operations Code of Conduct

Internal volunteer dispatcher rules, code of conduct, dispatch protocols, and county radio frequency configurations.

Download ⬇️
Emergency Contacts

Who to call, and when.

Keep these critical numbers handy. In any immediate threat to life or property, always call 9-1-1 first.

Immediate Emergency

9-1-1

Call or text for fire, medical emergency, or active crime in progress.

Arlington County Dispatch

(703) 558-2222

Non-emergency police, fire, or sheriff response in Arlington County.

Poison Control Center

1 (800) 222-1222

Immediate, expert guidance on poisons or chemical exposures 24/7.

Questions, answered

Who can take CERT training?
Anyone who lives or works in Arlington and is willing to help. No prior experience is needed.
How much does training cost?
Nothing — CERT training is free, delivered in partnership with Arlington County.
What do I get for completing it?
You become a volunteer and receive a CERT ID badge, safety vest, backpack, and t-shirt, plus our bimonthly newsletter with training and volunteer opportunities.
Do I have to respond to emergencies?
Training is valuable on its own for your household. If a major local emergency happens and CERT is activated, we request volunteers by phone and email — participation is always voluntary.