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Smart Practices Spotlight - Community Emergency Response Network - Howard County, Maryland

(U.S. Department of Homeland Security) -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has selected the Community Emergency Response Network (CERN) as a "Smart Practice" that has been shared with thousands of communities nationwide. CERN was developed by the Foundation in close coordination with Howard County, Maryland government. It's mission is to facilitate the development of a community-based disaster response plan for Howard County to ensure optimum preparedness in the advent of a terrorist attack. It supports government disaster planning through the coordination of the emergency plans and resources of participating members. CERN functions include planning, a high level of inter-agency coordination, the development of tabletop exercises, disaster plan review, shelter planning and communications. The organization, which is composed of approximately 25 organizational members and front line responders, is chaired by Foundation President & CEO Richard Krieg. CERN is made up of an Organization Corps as well as a FEMA-designated Citizens Corps.

Click here for the complete text of the Department of Homeland Security's Smart Practice document.