About the Community Emergency Response Network

CERN's mission is to spearhead the development of a community-wide disaster response plan to ensure optimum preparedness in the event of a terrorist attack or major natural emergency. This unique community readiness program was initiated after the events of September 11, as a partnership between the Horizon Foundation, the County government, and key community agencies in Howard County. The effort supports government disaster planning through 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 enhancement.