Thursday, March 28 2013, 6 p.m. Narcotics Task Force Office

Saturday, March 30 2013, 8 a.m. Alex City Firing Range

The Tallapoosa County Sheriff's Department will host a firearms safety/familiarization course.

The March 28 class will consist of instruction in safety, law, familiarization, cleaning and other necessary information.

The March 30 class will consist of practical application of firearms for inspection and use at the range.

Cost: $25 - includes both sessions

Attendee must be at least 21 and possess a valid pistol permit.

Pre-registration is required as seating is limited.

For further information or to register, please contact the Tallapoosa County Sheriff's Department or Lt. Bill Hough (256) 825-4264.

The Alabama Emergency Management Agency (AEMA) and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are teaming up to promote National Severe Weather Preparedness Week March 3-9. Sponsored by FEMA and the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Severe Weather Preparedness Week encourages individuals, families, businesses and communities to know about severe weather risks, take action to prepare for them, and Be a Force of Nature by encouraging others to get prepared.

Each year, many people are killed or seriously injured by tornadoes and other types of severe weather, despite advance warning. In 2012, there were more than 450 weather-related fatalities and nearly 2,600 injuries nationwide. Severe weather knows no boundaries and affects every individual in every region.