Blaine emergency group to hold life-saving demonstrations

The newly formed Blaine Emergency Response Team (BERT) will hold a meeting for the public 6-9 p.m. Tuesday, September 10 at Blaine Senior Center, 763 G Street.

The group will demonstrate providing first aid techniques, moving an injured person, putting out a fire, and creating a go-bag packed with survival supplies in the case of a rapid evacuation. BERT members who have received FEMA’s Community Emergency Response Team(CERT) training will provide the demonstrations.

Event organizer Cataline Harkleroad said BERT was formed within the past two years and has about 25 members.

“We’re trying to let the community know who we are, and let them know how they can take care of themselves and their neighbors,” Harkleroad said.

Attendees do not need to register, and the meeting is open to people living outside of Blaine city limits. The meeting will also provide people the opportunity to sign up for CERT training in Bellingham. CERT members are trained to help others in an emergency when first responders are unavailable.

Blaine police chief Rodger Funk and North Whatcom Fire and Rescue chief Jason Van Der Veen have been invited to attend the meeting.

Harkleroad said the group will have future meetings and wants more involvement from medical professionals who may be able to give them feedback.

BERT encourages new volunteers and people interested in joining can contact Cataline Harkleroad at catynwine@gmail.com or 925/997-0928.