Leading a Culture of Preparedness

I recently completed Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training here in Salem — and I was surprised to learn that I’m the first mayor to ever go through the program.

It all started with a simple question: “If something bad happens in Salem, how would I find out, and what happens next?” That question led to a meeting with our Fire Chief and Emergency Management team — and soon after, to signing up for the six-week CERT course.

I also attended the 2025 READY Fair at the Oregon Department of Emergency Management, spending the day learning about local preparedness resources and visiting the control room where statewide coordination happens. Through this training, I learned how to perform CPR the new way, use an AED machine, help triage and transport victims, and better understand how our city coordinates in an emergency.

For me, emergency preparedness takes public safety to the next level. If something serious happens in Salem, I’m ready to put on my hard hat, step in, and help lead our community through it.

Learn more about the CERT program here.