Classes Offered on Quake Preparedness

The county chapter of American Red Cross has expanded its schedule of earthquake- and disaster-preparedness classes in response to heightened public interest after last week’s temblors.

The two-hour classes, which cost $5, outline home-safety tips, first-aid basics and information about buying and assembling earthquake kits.

Lectures and videos are used for the class instruction, and participants will receive brochures and a 32-page planning guide.

The first classes were held this weekend and more are scheduled in Santa Ana at 600 N. Park Center Drive, Room 217, on these dates:

* Feb. 13, at 10 a.m. Class is in English.

* March 10, 7 p.m. Class is in English.

* March 12, 2 p.m. Class is in Spanish.

Instructors will offer a variety of safety tips and information on topics such as storing water, food, first-aid kits, shovels and ladders in accessible places, and placing smoke detectors in the most effective spots.

Kristen Haydon, assistant director of health and safety services for the local Red Cross, said the checklist given to participants can help families scan their homes for trouble spots.

The classes focus on earthquakes but also offer information about fire and flood risks.

“We give people an idea of the hazards that they might confront, which helps them react better during an emergency,” Haydon said. “A lot of times, people just panic and don’t know what to do.”

For more information about class schedules or to register, call (714) 835-5381, Ext. 231.

For information on earthquakes, write to the local Red Cross, P.O. Box 11364, Santa Ana, Calif. 92711.

The Red Cross also offers a disaster welfare inquiry service to people who have been unable to reach relatives or friends in the areas hardest hit by the Northridge quake.

The service, which will be offered as long as necessary, is available daily from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. at (714) 835-5381.