Red Cross to Hold Training in Scotch Plains, Fanwood

The Red Cross Chapters of Union County have announced that they'll do disaster training in the area during September and October.

Funded by a grant from the Union County Office of Emergency Management, the training will certify local residents to become disaster shelter volunteers. During a time of disaster, Red Cross chapters respond by opening shelters and providing food, clothing and comfort to those in need.

Those who complete the nine-hour, three-part course are entered into a nationwide database to be called on if disaster strikes. Tri-County Red Cross has a goal to train more than 500 disaster shelter volunteers.

The courses will be held at the following locations:

Union Catholic High School, 1600 S. Martine Avenue, Scotch Plains

Part I – Tuesday, Sept. 15, 6 to 9 p.m.
Part II – Tuesday, Sept. 22, 6 to 9 p.m.
Part III – Tuesday, Sept. 29, 6 to 9 p.m.

Forest Road Park, Forest Road Ext. off of Woodland Ave., Fanwood

Part I – Saturday, Oct. 17, 9 a.m. to noon 
Part II – Saturday, Oct, 17, 1 to 4 p.m. 
Part III – Sunday, Oct. 18, noon - 3 p.m.

Ralph G. Froehlich Public Safety Bldg 300 North Avenue, Westfield

Part I – Wednesday, Oct. 14, 6 to 9 p.m.
Part II – Wednesday, Oct. 21, 6 to 9 p.m.
Part III – Wednesday, Oct. 28, 6 to 9 p.m.

Volunteers must be 18 years old or older. Registration can be completed by visiting the Tri-County Red Cross Web site or by calling (908) 756-6414, ext. 21.

Businesses and organizations such as VFWs, churches or social clubs can also sponsor classes for their employees or members. Contact Mike Prasad at (908) 756-6414, ext. 15 or prasadm@usa.redcross.org to arrange a class.