RECRUITING YOUTH FOR EMERGENCY SERVICES
By Alex Davis Endeavor News

Teenagers could soon play a bigger role in preparing for - and responding to -- emergencies that take place in Cameron County.

Emergency Management Coordinator Kevin Johnson told the Cameron County Board of Commissioners this week that he is hoping to initiate classes to promote awareness and provide training for youths in the event of disasters.

"Teenagers can make a big difference," Johnson said. "We need to give them a chance to make that difference."

Classes would be a part of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program and could be offered through an agreement with Cameron County School District. Adult courses may also be offered.

The commissioners agreed to designate $17,750 in federal funds to support this and related projects.

"You are really helping our future," Commissioner Phil Jones said.

Probation Officer Annie Hnath and Local Emergency Planning Committee Chairman Adam Johnson recently returned from a conference on CERT.

A portion of the funds will be used for distributing brochures at local events and sponsoring other types of training, including CPR and fire extinguishers.