Responding to demand, free training on emergency preparedness moves to a larger venue

In response to overwhelming interest in free training on emergency preparedness on Feb. 8, the city has announced a new location with a greater capacity for more attendees. Ready Together: Basic Emergency Preparedness for You, Your Family & Your Neighborhood will take place at Widen Elementary School, 5605 Nuckols Crossing Road, Austin, TX 78744, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 8. All community members who were on the waitlist will be notified that they are now registered. Capacity for this class was raised to 80 people. Registration is closed but if space allows, walk-ins may be allowed. The course will cover how to practice the four steps of emergency preparedness: making a plan, building a kit, knowing your neighbors and staying informed. Attendees will gain practical knowledge on how to prepare their home, family and community for a variety of hazards. This is the second time the class has been offered, and this installment will focus on winter weather. Those who complete the course will receive a free emergency preparedness starter kit and NOAA weather radio. Interpreters will be available on-site in Spanish and American Sign Language. “As we watch extreme weather events increase around the globe and here at home, we know working together to prepare for the unexpected is essential,” said Austin Energy General Manager Bob Kahn. “This training will help our neighbors get ready and stay ready for the next emergency.” The course is developed in partnership with Austin Energy, Ascension Seton, Go Austin/Vamos Austin and Austin Fire Department.