SOURCE: Press Release from American Red Cross

Even before the first hurricane threatens, the American Red Cross, Texas Gulf Coast Region, is working behind the scenes to make sure people don’t have to face the worst alone.

“At the Red Cross we never stop preparing for disasters because we know they can happen anytime, anywhere,” said Shawn Schulze, Regional CEO for the American Red Cross Texas Gulf Coast Region. “It’s critical that people make their preparations too. Large disasters are occurring almost continuously, and it only takes one to change someone’s life forever.”

To prepare for hurricanes, the Red Cross focuses on coordinating response plans and readying both volunteers and supplies. For example, the Red Cross coordinates closely with government officials and community partners to make sure people will have access to safe shelter, food and water, and critical relief supplies when needed. We’re also actively recruiting and training volunteers that will be ready to step up and help their neighbors. And finally, we’re checking that our local response vehicles and warehouses are stocked and ready to go if needed.

TAKE THESE STEPS TO GET READY

Plan to evacuate and to shelter safely at home. The evacuation plan should include knowing where to go, how to get there, and where to stay. The stay-at-home plan should focus on gathering the right supplies to live safely without power, water, gas, phone or internet for several days.

Sign up for free local government emergency alerts, which will include important information such as evacuation orders in an emergency. Download the free Red Cross Emergency app for real-time weather alerts, open shelter locations and expert advice in both English or Spanish.

HOW YOU CAN HELP People look to the Red Cross for assistance every day and our volunteers help and support them on what often is one of their worst days. Because the Red Cross is operating in a state of continuous disaster response, there is an urgent need for new volunteers. Visit redcross.org/volunteer to learn more and sign up for free online training today.

There is a critical need for these key positions:

· Disaster Action Team (DAT): Help families in your community after a home fire or other disaster. DAT team members provide emotional support, emergency financial assistance and information to help families begin to recover.

· Shelter Volunteers: Ensure needs of shelter residents are met and help them access additional services.

· Disaster Health/Mental Health Services: Use your professional skills as a licensed health care provider to help meet people’s immediate needs in emergency shelters and refer them for ongoing, specialized care.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.

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