COVID-19 Policy updated January 30, 2024
In the CERT Auxiliary (CERT) program, our mission is to do the greatest good for the greatest number of people. To fulfill our mission and protect our community and our volunteers, CERT leadership aligns itself with the Santa Cruz County Department of Health and California Department of Public Health (CDPH) COVID-19 policies.
Masking
As of April 3, 2023, masks are not required on deployments, CERT exercises, and in-person trainings. However, we strongly encourage people wear a mask (surgical or better) when engaging in activities in close contact with others.
In addition, CERT recommends that volunteers wear a mask in the following conditions:
- Significant exposure to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19
- Are immune-compromised
- Are not vaccinated against COVID-19
CERT members with symptoms of illness (e.g., cough, runny nose, and/or sore throat) are prohibited from attending in-person CERT activities.
CERT members testing positive for COVID-19 should mask, isolate, and quarantine per CDPH guidance and are prohibited from attending in-person CERT activities. Please refer to CDPH guidance on isolation protocol after testing positive for COVID-19: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/COVID-19-Isolation-Guidance.aspx
CERT members testing positive for COVID-19 within 5–7 days after attending a CERT event should notify the trainer/team leader, supervisor, or other event contact. They should then follow CDPH/CDC guidance regarding isolation, testing, and masking.
John M. Hanley, Pharm.D, RPh, CCA
CERT Auxiliary Safety Officer