Even before the first wildfire threatens, the American Red Cross Pacific Coast Chapter 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 Sabrina Ashjian, American Red Cross Pacific Coast Chapter Board chair. “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 wildfires, the Red Cross focuses on coordinating response plans and readying both volunteers and supplies.
For example, the Red Cross coordinates with government officials and community partners to ensure people will have access to safe shelter, food and water, and relief supplies when needed.
“We’re also actively recruiting and training volunteers that will be ready to step up and help their neighbors,” organization officials said. “And finally, we’re checking that our local response vehicles and warehouses are stocked and ready to go if needed.
The Red Cross advises taking the following steps to be prepared:
- Families may need to evacuate quickly with little notice. Create a plan that includes how to stay connected with each other, where to go if evacuated, how to get there, and where to stay.
- Sign up for free local government emergency alerts that will include 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 English or Spanish.
“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,” Red Cross officials said. “Because the Red Cross is operating in a state of continuous disaster response, there is an urgent need for new volunteers.”
The Red Cross said there is a critical need for the following 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.
Visit redcross.org/volunteer to learn more and sign up for free online training today.
For more, visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org.