GUILDERLAND — New York National Guard troops will be giving free disaster preparedness classes at Crossgates Mall on Tuesday, Aug. 11, from 6 to 8 p.m.

The event is part of Governor Andrew Cuomo's continuing Citizen Preparedness Corps Training Program, intended to give citizens the knowledge and tools to prepare for emergencies and disasters, respond accordingly, and recover as quickly as possible.

Working with the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services and with local emergency management personnel, troops are conducting these training events across the state.

Citizens should register for the event at http://www.prepare.ny.gov/training-events.

Since the program's launch in early February 2014, troops have held more than 380 events statewide, and taught over 38,169 citizens how to be better prepared for emergencies and disasters.

The program, designed by Homeland Security, covers a range of topics, like developing a family emergency plan; stocking up on supplies; and registering for NY-Alert, the free statewide emergency alert system.

Participants will receive a training certificate, a wallet-sized "Z-Card" with emergency preparedness information, and a free Citizen Preparedness Starter Kit — one per family. The packet includes a first-aid kit, face mask, pocket radio with batteries, food bars, emergency blanket and other items to help citizens in the immediate aftermath of a disaster. The classes include information about what other supplies and items citizens should add to their kits.

For more information on the program and emergency preparedness, visit www.nyprepare.gov.