FDNY hosts NYC Emergency Management at the Fire Academy to conduct training of volunteers to enhance readiness ahead of high-profile 2026 events

April 26, 2026

The FDNY, in partnership with New York City Emergency Management, hosted a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training exercise on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at the Department's Fire Academy on Randall's Island. The full-scale training event helps strengthen citywide preparedness ahead of major upcoming events across New York City.

The exercise brought together CERT volunteers—trained community members who support first responders during emergencies and large-scale events—for hands-on training designed to enhance readiness, coordination and situational awareness. The training is part of ongoing efforts to prepare for high-profile activations, including FIFA World Cup 2026 and America250 celebrations.

"It's definitely going to be a busy summer with the World Cup and America250. We know we're going to need all hands on deck," FDNY First Deputy Commissioner Daniel Flynn said. "Any help that we can get is much appreciated, and having these trained members out there in the community that we can activate at any time is a huge benefit to us."

The training focused on key areas, including search-and-rescue operations, trauma care and triage, subway and critical infrastructure safety, and crowd management.

The day concluded with a disaster simulation, allowing CERT members to apply the skills they learned throughout the day in a coordinated, high-pressure environment.

Learn more and apply to become a CERT volunteer here.

FDNY First Deputy Commissioner Daniel Flynn said it will be a busy summer in New York City, adding: "Any help that we can get is much appreciated, and having these trained members out there in the community that we can activate at any time is a huge benefit to us."