Registration is now open for Kirkland’s eight-week-long Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training program. The program is scheduled to begin Wednesday, Sept. 11 and continues for eight consecutive Wednesdays from 6 to 9 p.m.

Classes will be held at the Northshore Baptist Church, 10301 NE 145th St., Kirkland. To register, visit www.kirklandwa.gov/cert.

Registration is $35 for Kirkland residents; $50 for non-residents. The fee includes a learning manual, hardhat, vest, backpack and emergency supplies and must be paid at the time of registration.

Community Emergency Response Training is a hands-on course taught by Kirkland firefighters that trains citizens how to support their neighborhoods and community by preparing for and responding to disasters when first responders who provide fire and medical services will not be able to meet the demand.

Participants learn about readiness, how to help others, quick decision making skills and rescuer safety.

Classes include instruction in disaster preparedness, medical operations, fire suppression, light search and rescue operations, disaster psychology and team organization.

The series of classes ends with a disaster simulation held on Nov. 3. A graduation ceremony will be held before the City Council.

Additional information and registration forms are available at www.kirklandwa.gov/CERT or by  contacting Christina Brugman, volunteer, Kirkland Office of Emergency Management at CBrugman@kirklandwa.gov.