The world continues to experience natural disasters every day. In just the past five years, parts of America have experienced extensive damage as a result of such disasters as Hurricane Sandy, the 2014 South Napa Earthquake and the 2015 Valley Fire. Thankfully, Benicia has managed to avoid disasters of this magnitude during that time, but it is not immune from them. The area faces the possibility of experiencing earthquakes, wildfires, floods and landslides. Should one of them strike Benicia, first responders would be on hand for rescue and relief efforts, and residents will need to figure out the best way to prepare for them.

   The good news is the Benicia Fire Department will be offering a free course that can help.

   On Saturday, Jan. 21, the department will be hosting “Get Ready Benicia,” a course aimed at preparing community households to be in a suitable position when calamity strikes. The aim of the program is to prepare residents with the skills to survive and cope with a disaster for up to five through seven days. According to the Fire Department, citizens who are prepared are less prone to injuries and illnesses as a result of a natural disaster. The course also aims to reduce work for over-burdened emergency first responders and free up space in hospitals and urgent care centers as well as reduce the financial burden the city would face in the aftermath of a disaster.

This course will be held from 9:30 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Jan. 21 at Fire Station 11, located at 150 Military West. Advanced registration is required, and scheduled classes will be canceled if minimum enrollment is not met. To register, email FireDept@ci.benicia.ca.us or call 746-4275.