SAIPAN — Thirty-four CNMI residents have completed disaster preparedness and response trainings led by Northern Marianas College Cooperative Research, Extension, and Education Services, working in partnership with the Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services and Homeland Security Emergency Management.
The training series was held across all three populated islands, combining multi-day first aid and response instruction on Rota and Tinian with a longer program on Saipan that included Community Emergency Response Team training and CPR certification. In total, 12 participants were certified on Saipan, 15 on Tinian, and seven on Rota.
Organizers said the sessions focused on practical, scenario-based learning designed to help everyday residents respond effectively in the early moments of an emergency when professional help may still be en route. Training covered disaster assessment, patient stabilization, CPR, and light search-and-rescue techniques.
Participants described the experience as both realistic and confidence-building.
Stephanie Gruy of Saipan said the program reinforced the value of planning through worst-case scenarios, especially as a parent, and encouraged taking time to assess hazards and exits rather than rushing into unsafe situations.
Chad Ellie Borja Palacios of Tinian said the Disaster Response Advanced First Aid training was “an eye-opener,” adding that the hands-on approach and expert guidance helped build confidence to stay calm and provide care during emergencies.
Robert Myers of Rota said he joined because disasters often require immediate action before medical professionals arrive, and he believes the training is useful for anyone responsible for others at home, at work, or in the community.
NMC-CREES Dean Patty Coleman credited DFEMS and HSEM for collaborating with the college’s Family, Community, and Youth Development Program to strengthen CNMI readiness for disasters and emergencies.
