What should CERT members do to help relieve survivor stress?

Providing emotional support and reassurance is crucial for relieving survivor stress during an emergency situation. When individuals experience a traumatic event, they often feel overwhelmed, anxious, and frightened. By actively listening, offering empathy, and reassuring them that help is available, CERT members can create a more calming environment. This support helps survivors process their emotions, feel less isolated, and regain a sense of control in a chaotic situation.

While other actions like gathering belongings, directing them to medical facilities, or compiling lists of missing persons can be helpful in different contexts, they do not directly address the emotional needs of survivors. Emotional support is integral to the immediate well-being of individuals affected by crises, making it the most effective approach to relieve the stress they are experiencing.