Trainers Sought for Disaster Prep Classes

Mississippi teens can soon be trained in disaster preparedness in their communities.

Mississippi State University’s Extension Service is certifying trainers for the Mississippi Youth Preparedness Initiative. The goal is to teach teenagers how they can help themselves, their families and communities prepare for and respond to disasters.

In preparation, Ryan Akers, an assistant extension professor, is coordinating three sessions for trainers.

Youth program training begins in 2013.

Instruction will include 10, two-hour weekly classes plus one Saturday session. Teens will learn how to extinguish small fires, conduct search and rescue, assist injured people and develop basic disaster kits.

More information on becoming a trainer is available by contacting Akers at cakers(at)humansci.msstate.edu.