American Legion Post 157 Bandera, Texas (located in South Central Texas) has been designated as the primary shelter during Emergency Disasters for the surrounding Banera County. Under the jurisdiction of the Bandera County Emergency Operations Coordinator and The Red Cross, the post is stocking up to provide shelter and meals for 30 people. Additionally, they will offer respite and meals to the county’s first responders comprised of county volunteer fire fighters, county volunteer EMS and local law enforcement.

Post 157’s officers and members are being trained in First Aid and CPR. The post also coordinates First Aid/CPR classes for the community four times a year.

The post volunteered to coordinate the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) for Bandera County. CERT is a federally funded program under Homeland Security. Post 157 coordinates and hosts this important training with the understanding that following a major disaster, first responders who provide fire and medical services will not be able to meet the total demand for these services. CERT training gives us the knowledge needed to make a difference for those who may need the help. When the immediate danger has passed, CERT can impact the recovery effort in ways such as providing immediate assistance to victims in the area, organizing spontaneous volunteers who have not had the training and collect disaster intelligence that will assist professional responders with prioritization and allocation of resources following disasters.

Additional resource: Download The American Legion Disaster Preparedness Booklet