After reviewing a few basic concepts (such as the difference between an emergency, a disaster, and a catastrophe), Professor Owen walks you through the fundamentals of a good preparedness plan. From identifying risks around you to building physical and digital "go kits," you are on your way.

When Everything Fails: Surviving Any Disaster offers a practical guide for protecting yourself, your family, and your community. Taught by Professor Stephen Owen of Radford University, these 14 fast-paced episodes will arm you with information for planning ahead so you can prepare for the effects of a disaster or catastrophe.

In this first of three episodes on community infrastructure, review some of the public safety issues typical to many places, as well as how first responders operate within the community. Popular media often mischaracterize the roles of police, firefighters, and emergency medical services, so take a real-world look at what these organizations do in urgent situations.

Take a crash course in some of the more common weather hazards, from hurricanes and tornadoes to floods and blizzards. We will all experience extreme weather at some point, and this episode arms you with information about the dynamics of weather systems as well as precautionary measures you can and should take.

Shift your attention from specific types of disasters to the way communities respond. As you will find out in this episode, one "emergent behavior" following a disaster is a sense of community bonding and altruism. Examine a few of the ways you can help after a disaster, from volunteering to donations.

Police and firefighters may be on the visible front lines of a disaster scene, but communities require numerous individuals and agencies in order to respond effectively and recover. From scientists researching risks to public works departments or public health officials coordinating recovery, uncover society's hidden responders.

A fire is one of the most common disasters you might encounter, and one for which you can readily prepare. Learn the basics of fire safety, from developing a home fire safety plan to specific things you can do to reduce your risk of fire in the home. This episode also shows you the fundamentals of how fires work, including flashovers and backdrafts.

Knowing the basics of CPR, first aid, fire extinguishers, and more might one day save a life (even yours). Take a look at some of the practical skills you would be wise to develop, from operating an AED to shutting off utilities. See where you should look for more comprehensive hands-on training.

Explore the forefront of recent studies in self-presentation. After more than 40 years of experience in psychology and neuroscience—and with wry humor and a talent for distilling difficult concepts into manageable parts— Professor Mark Leary makes this fascinating topic accessible to audiences everywhere. Step up to a thought-provoking journey into the workings of the human social mind.

From cutting tight curves to large sweeping curves, thin stock to thick timbers, bandsaws can handle it all. Equipped with the right blade, and correctly set up, a bandsaw offers amazing versatility. This class will provide you with the information you need to get the most out of your bandsaw, use it safely, and make it a go-to tool in your shop.