Final answer:
A CERT member's first responsibility during a disaster is to ensure their own safety and then assist others, rather than entering burning buildings or performing complex rescues.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a disaster occurs, a CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) member's first responsibility is to ensure their own safety and then assist others. This can involve several actions such as assessing the situation, administering first aid, and using two-way radios to communicate with superiors. However, it is important to note that a CERT member is not trained or authorized to perform searches or rescues in potentially dangerous structures like burning buildings. Instead, their role is to assist with emergency readiness and support in the aftermath of a disaster.
After ensuring their own safety, CERT members can then focus on helping others by providing essential first aid, supporting emergency services, and assisting with community recovery efforts. Knowing how to respond swiftly and effectively can be critical in a disaster situation. It is also important for CERT members to encourage community cohesiveness and preparedness for future emergencies, demonstrating a lasting impact on their local area.