POTSDAM -- Clarkson University will host a New York State Citizen Emergency Preparedness Training Program on Sept. 27, at 10 a.m. in the Student Center.

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

The program provides residents with the knowledge and tools to prepare for emergencies and disasters, 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 as the start of their own emergency preparedness kit. 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.

Anyone who is interested in attending must pre-register for the course online athttp://www.nyprepare.gov/aware-prepare/nysprepare/registration

New York National Guard troops, working with experts from the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES) and local emergency management personnel, are holding these classes across the state.

For more information about the event, call the New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs at 518-786-6186, or Master Sgt. Ray Drumsta at 607-592-2070.