Highline residents are encouraged to register for and attend four disaster preparedness classes to learn how to be able to cope better with disaster by preparing in advance

Burien Parks and Recreation will offer classes in both English and Spanish in partnership with the American Red Cross Disaster Education Program and the King County Public Health Department.

An emergency can strike anyone, anytime, and government agencies are encouraging citizens to develop disaster preparedness plan for their families.

Whether it's an earthquake that hits the entire community, a gas leak that threatens neighborhoods, a disaster that disrupts a business, or a weekend boating trip that turns tragic, there are resources to help ensure that individuals, families and businesses are well prepared.

Last year, many people found themselves caught sitting at home in the cold and dark, while many businesses were closed for several days.

Every individual is in the best position to plan for their own safety and that of their family, and citizens are encouraged to register for and attend the four disaster preparedness classes.

Mini disaster survival kits will be given to participants that attend all four classes.

The first series of classes will be offered in Spanish over four Tuesdays from Oct. 23 through Nov. 13. The classes will be from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

English class sessions will be offered on Tuesdays from Nov. 20 through Dec. 11, also from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

All classes will be held at the Burien Community Center, 425 S.W. 144th St.

Interested citizens can register by calling 206-988-3700. More information about disaster preparedness is available at www.3ways3days.org.