C.E.R.T. PHOTOS ~

C.E.R.T.

Correctional Emergency Response Team

CERT

It is the policy of the PPS to have in place a Correctional Emergency Response Team (CERT). The Commissioner and/or his designee (Deputy Commissioner or the Warden) will authorize the activation of CERT. When activated, CERT will have authorization to use less than lethal munitions (all use of munitions will be with the knowledge and/or approval of the Commissioner or his/her designee), as well as other common emergency equipment, within the inner perimeter of all facilities until such time as the emergency situation is under control. The Commissioner may only authorize the use of anything above the less than lethal response.

Training

All CERT members will complete a mandatory forty (40) hour training course in CERT operations. This course will be conducted only by state certified PPS CERT instructors. The training and certification of all PPS CERT instructors will be accredit by the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections. The training will include qualification on the use of designated firearms, advanced OC contamination and decontamination training and certification in the use of an E.R.D.

PPS CERT instructors will conduct in-service training on a monthly basis, which will consist of CERT operations. Training courses will include but not be limited to, CERT ethics, cell extractions, shakedown procedures, formations, room clearings, crowd control, yard disturbances, oxygen deprivation drills, the deployment of less than lethal munitions, OC spray and smoke. Also included will be training on PPS Policies 3.A.8 "Use of Force and Restraints" 3.A.18 "Searches", 3.B.8 "Institutional Emergency Procedures", 3.B.10 "Riot Plan", and other related PPS policies concerning emergency preparedness and responses.

CERT Chain of Command and Squad Structure

. Commissioner of Prisons

. Deputy Commissioners

. Warden

. Situation /Scene Commander

. CERT Commander

. CERT Team Leader

. CERT Squad Leader

. OC Specialist

. Baton Member

. Shield/OC Member

. SSR Team Member

. Shotgun Member

. 37 mm Less Lethal Member