Fire department program trains locals for disasters

There are still plenty of spaces available for interested community members looking to be properly trained on how to be prepared for an emergency in Newport Beach, Fire Department officials said.

The Fire Department’s 2008 Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program series begins at 7 tonight. Classes are free, said Community Preparedness Director Matt Brisbois.

Weekday classes run from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday for 10 weeks. There are all-day Saturday classes starting this weekend. Classes are from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday and Sept. 27.

Program schedules, information and applications are available at www.nbcert.org. For more information, call (949) 644-3112.

— Joseph Serna