CARLSBAD -- Training for the all-volunteer Carlsbad Community Emergency Response Team begins Jan. 30, officials said Monday.

The program teaches residents basic emergency skills for effective response to disasters as part of a neighborhood team.

Volunteers receive 24 hours of special basic training including fire safety, disaster medical operations, and light search and rescue.

The eight-week course will be conducted Monday evenings from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. beginning Jan. 30. Classes will be held at the Carlsbad Safety Center, 2560 Orion Way.

Prospective volunteers may apply at www.volunteerincarlsbad.net.

For more information, contact Emergency Preparedness Coordinator David Harrison at (760) 931-2137.