Next week I will start a local CERT course- six evenings and a Saturday exercise. Hopefully, I will be of greater use when our next disaster occurs and my efforts will be more coordinated and effective. A lot of my motivation for taking this course comes from the discussions on this board.

What are realistic expectations for this training? Any suggestions for preparation? Any insights? I realize training at this level does not transform anyone into Captain Rescue, but allows an informed citizenry to respond immediately and be on the same page with trained personnel on some dark and smoky night.