I too am in favor of CERT training. If nothing else it is an excellent springboard to start family discussions about preparedness....and can be a whole lot more.

The training in my view is quite basic and more of an introduction to the specific skills, but it can and should lead to increased involvement in the community.

My wife and I did CERT in 2002 which lead to our joining the local RACES/CERT groups and continuing on with monthly training.