The American Red Cross will offer free volunteer classes at Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School beginning Oct. 6 and running through Nov. 7.

After the training, volunteers become Red Cross certified, and with some experience can be deployed locally and nationally. The class is open to anyone 17 years and older who would like to become a Red Cross disaster action team member. There are no other prerequisites and all classes are free.

The schedule is as follows: Oct. 6, Fulfilling Our Mission; Oct. 9, Mass Care; Oct. 10, Client Casework; Oct. 13, Shelter Operations; Oct. 20, Shelter Simulation; Nov. 3, Psychological First Aid; and Nov. 7, CPR/AED, First Aid.

Weekday classes begin at 6 p.m. and weekend classes begin at 9 a.m. A federal background check is required of all participants. You must attend all six classes. However, there may be some make-up dates available.

These classes are free but students must preregister for each course. Students who complete the Red Cross unit of six courses will be registered as Martha’s Vineyard Disaster trained volunteers who will be called on to assist in the community during small and large disasters on the Island including family fires and storms.

After the class, you will understand the mission and philosophy of the Red Cross that reaches worldwide. You will learn how to work in a shelter and assist affected people while driving an ERV (Emergency Response Vehicle). You will learn the steps taken to assist clients in the event of an emergency. You will also learn firsthand from other volunteers who have traveled near and far, who will talk about their experiences with the Red Cross. Once you have completed this course, you will be a certified Red Cross Volunteer and eligible to take CPR/AED, and First Aid Training classes free of charge.

To register, please contact the training administrator at 508-775-1540, extension 24 and indicate: Disaster Volunteer Class in Oak Bluffs. Please provide your name, town and telephone number. You can also register by sending an e-mail to Michael Robbins or Becky Alden at train@cciredcross.org.

For details, see online capecodandislandsredcross.org or call 508-775-1540.