Course on preparing for emergencies March 18

In response to ongoing homeland security concerns, the American Red Cross of Central New Jersey will present a free course on emergency preparedness March 18 at Rutgers University, New Brunswick.

The 90-minute presentation, titled "Preparing for the Unexpected," is designed to provide individuals with the information needed to prepare for any type of disaster, including fires, hurricanes, floods and terrorist attacks.

The course will be held at the Annex-College Avenue Gym at 6:30 p.m. and will identify ways to keep households safe in the event of an emergency. Issues to be discussed include developing a family emergency plan, building a disaster supply kit and sheltering in-place.

"With the possibility of war, terrorist attacks, natural disasters and everyday emergencies, being prepared can help save lives," said Kevin Sullivan, chief executive officer of the central New Jersey chapter of the Red Cross.

Through its "Together We Prepare" initiative, the Red Cross is encouraging residents to join a grassroots effort to make sure central New Jersey is better prepared, should disaster strike, by doing five simple things: Make a plan, build a kit, get trained, volunteer and give blood.

For more information, visit the Web site at www.njredcross.org or call (609) 951-8550.