In 2006, LWR CERT was established under a special Department of Homeland Security and FEMA program as a volunteer organization of residents who receive special training to provide search and rescue, first aid, and radio communications support in response to disasters and emergencies when professional first responders may not be able to reach everyone as soon as help is needed.  We are part of the Manatee County Florida Disaster Response System.

Our organization was initially funded by a County grant and supported with a small budget from the Fire Department. After much planning and work, the first FEMA Basic Skills class of LWR residents graduated on Saturday, Jan. 20, 2007.