POTSDAM -- Clarkson University will host a Citizen Emergency Preparedness Training Program on Sept. 27 at 10 a.m. in the school's student center.

This free two-hour training session, conducted by New York National Guard troops, is open to the public.

The program provides knowledge and tools to prepare for emergencies and disasters, how to respond accordingly and recover as quickly as possible to pre-disaster conditions.

Each participant will receive a free citizen preparedness starter kit (one per family), containing emergency supplies. The backpack is stocked with a first-aid kit, pocket radio with batteries, food bars, emergency blanket, flashlight and other key items to help citizens in the immediate aftermath of a disaster. In addition, everyone who attends will receive a wallet-sized "Z-Card" with emergency preparedness information and a certificate of completion.

The program covers a broad range of emergency preparedness topics including developing a family emergency plan, stocking up on emergency supplies and registering for NY-Alert, the free statewide emergency alert system.

Pre-registration required, at http://www.prepare.ny.gov or http://www.nyprepare.gov/aware-prepare/nysprepare/registration