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HEAVY RAIN AND FLOOD PREPAREDNESS

Cameron Ballantyne - noemail@houstonredcross.org — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 20:00:00 GMT

HOUSTON TEXAS, JANUARY 9, 2012---Over the course of the morning, the Houston area has been hit with rain, thunder storms, hail and some funnel clouds. The American Red Cross is urging people living around Houston to get prepared now. If your neighborhood is threatened, you should.

Be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice.
When a flood or flash flood warning is issued for the area, head for higher ground and stay there.
Stay away from floodwaters. If someone comes upon a flowing stream where water is above their ankles, they should stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep a person off of their feet.
If someone comes upon a flooded road while driving, they should turn around and go another way. If caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around them, they should get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.
Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water.
Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood danger.

People should know what the warnings mean. A flood WATCH means a flood is possible in the area. If a flood watch is issued, people should move their furniture and valuables to higher floors of their home. People should keep their vehicle’s gas tank full in case they have to evacuate.

A flood WARNING means flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in the area. If a flood warning is issued, listen to local radio and television stations for information. If told to evacuate, do so as soon as possible.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation's blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.

-End-
Flood Update (4:51pm):

The American Red Cross will be opening a shelter at the Saint Francis Xavier Catholic Church for those displaced by the floods. If needed, please seek shelter at 4600 Reed Road, Houston, TX, 77051. If possible, the American Red Cross recommends bringing bedding and other items which may help you feel more comfortable. It is also important to bring any medications needed, if possible.

9-Jan-12 2:00 PM

Red Cross Continues Irene Relief, Keeping an Eye on the Gulf

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 18:00:00 GMT

Friday, September 02, 2011 — Going into Labor Day weekend, the American Red Cross continues to help communities that were impacted by Hurricane Irene, and is carefully monitoring a tropical depression that could bring torrential rain to parts of Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi.

Irene Response Continues
Nearly a week after Hurricane Irene made landfall, the Red Cross has provided more than 55,000 overnight shelter stays to people impacted by the storm. In communities stretching from North Carolina to Maine, the Red Cross is providing food, shelter, cleanup supplies and emotional support to those whose homes were affected by the hurricane.

In many ways, the cleanup can seem more daunting than the storm itself, as it stretches on for days and weeks.

Julie Gray came to the roadside in Kill Devil Hills, N.C., late Tuesday afternoon to accept free meals from a Red Cross mobile feeding vehicle. Volunteer Eilene Guy explained how the Red Cross helps victims of disaster, and volunteer Carrie Smith helped carry several hot meals of chicken, creamed potatoes and applesauce to Gray’s home.

Tears of fatigue and emotion brimmed in Gray’s eyes, even as she tried to maintain a brave face in the wake of Hurricane Irene’s destruction. A lifelong resident of North Carolina’s Outer Banks, she is finding the cleanup daunting.

When the Red Cross vehicle stopped at Gray’s waterfront home to deliver hot meals after a strenuous day of cleanup, she told volunteer Carrie Smith, “You can’t imagine what this means.”

Preparing on the Gulf of Mexico
What is now Tropical Depression 13 threatens to bring heavy rain and flooding to several states along the Gulf over the next several days. The Red Cross is carefully monitoring the storm’s movement, and urges anyone who could be impacted to prepare for potential floods.

First, make sure you have a disaster supply kit ready, including food (at least a three-day, non-perishable supply) and water (a least a three-day supply; one gallon per person per day).

Listen to area radio and television stations and a NOAAWeather Radio for possible flood warnings and reports of flooding in progress or other critical information from the NationalWeather Service (NWS).

Be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice. When a flood or flash flood warning is issued for your area, head for higher ground and stay there.

If you come upon a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water. Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood danger.

Kill Devil Hills, N.C., resident Julie Gray accepts free hot meals from Red Cross volunteer Carrie Smith.

Photo: Daniel Cima/American Red Cross

Shop Redcrossstore.org for all your preparedness needs.

Stay away from floodwaters. If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.

More preparedness information can be found on www.redcross.org.

2-Sep-11 1:00 PM

This is National Preparedness Month – Are You Ready?

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Thursday, September 01, 2011 - As thousands of people deal with the aftermath of Hurricane Irene, National Preparedness Month, which starts today, is an opportunity to remind people of the importance of being ready for emergencies and steps that they can take class.

The three key steps to preparedness are Build a kit, make a plan, and be informed.

An emergency preparedness kit should include enough supplies for at least three days. Supplies should include water (one gallon, per person, per day), nonperishable food, a flashlight, battery-powered or hand-crank radio, extra batteries, a first aid kit, a 7-day supply of medications, a multi-purpose tool, sanitation and personal hygiene items and copies of important personal documents. The Red Cross also recommends having at least two weeks worth of supplies at home. A variety of emergency preparedness kits, first aid kits and other supplies are available at www.redcrossstore.org.

View the BRCR module

All members of the household should work together on an emergency plan. Each person should know how to reach other members of the household. The plan should also include an out-of-area emergency contact person, and where everyone should meet if they can't go home. People should be informed about what types of disasters are most likely to occur where they live and how local authorities will contact them in a disaster. Every household should have someone take First Aid and CPR/AED training to be able to respond to health emergencies at home in case advanced medical help is delayed.

A recent Red Cross survey showed that more and more people are using online news sites and social media platforms in an emergency to gather information and let their loved ones know they are safe. The Red Cross, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Ad Council and Google Crisis Response recently launched a new preparedness web resource, Get Tech Ready, which teaches people how to use technology to prepare, adapt and recover from emergencies or disasters.

“During Hurricane Irene, we saw people using new technologies in many ways, whether it was thousands of people downloading our new shelter finder app or others using our Safe and Well site and social media to let their friends and family know they are okay, ” said Gail McGovern, president and CEO of the Red Cross. “People now have more resources at their fingertips to use before, during and after emergencies.”

Get Tech Ready teaches people how to send updates via text and internet from their mobile phone; how to store important documents in the cloud or on a flash or jump drive and how to create an emergency information document using the Ready.gov Family Emergency Plan template in Google Docs or by downloading the ReadyFamilyEmergencyPlan.

Studies show that up to 40 percent of businesses fail following a natural or man-made disaster. The Red Cross Ready Rating™ Program is a free, self-paced, web-based membership program that helps businesses and schools measure how ready they are to deal with emergencies, and gives customized feedback on how they can improve their efforts.

No one can predict where or when the next large disaster will strike, but preparedness steps taken today can save lives and livelihoods tomorrow. People can contact their local Red Cross to learn what steps they should take to be ready when emergencies strike.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation's blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.

1-Sep-11 8:00 AM

Returning Home, But Finding Devastation

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 20:00:00 GMT

Tuesday, August 30, 2011 — Days after Hurricane Irene swept the East Coast, millions of people are facing power outages, floods and damaged or destroyed homes.

Since Friday, the American Red Cross has provided more than 52,000 overnight shelter stays to those impacted by Irene. More than 2,700 people were still in Red Cross shelters on Monday night, while others have returned home only to find their houses damaged or destroyed.

The Red Cross has 260 mobile feeding vehicles—more than two-thirds its entire fleet—now assigned to states hit by the storm. The Red Cross has also worked with long-time partners such as the Southern Baptist Convention to set up and operate ten kitchens, which are capable of producing a total of about 140,000 hot meals every day.

Many of these meals will be loaded onto Red Cross vehicles and distributed in neighborhoods where people are now returning home—in some cases, to homes with no power. The Red Cross has also arranged to procure approximately 1.3 million catered meals through various vendors in North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey and New York.

Thousands of supplies have also been shipped by the Red Cross to affected states to help residents as they begin to clean up their homes. These items include tarps, rakes, shovels, trash bags and buckets.

In Columbia, N.C., Allen Melton came back to his house on Monday to find the unthinkable.

“We left out of here before the storm,” Melton said, walking past his pickup truck, the high-water mark nearly three feet above the ground still visible on the black paint. They didn’t expect to return to a house full of water. “The water poured out when I opened the door,” he said.

Inside, the sofa had floated to the middle of the living room; in the first-floor bedroom, sodden clothes littered the floor.

Melton braved the wind and rain that continued Saturday evening to save his dog, whose head was just above water in the backyard, and to rescue his wife’s pride and joy, the potted plants that passersby stopped to admire in her front yard.

By Monday, two days after the storm passed, the floor boards were beginning to buckle and the house was beginning to smell of mold. Although Melton knows the house is a total loss, he is mindful of the sorrows of his neighbors and others in this hard-hit region of eastern North Carolina south of Albemarle Sound.

“Thanks for all you’re doing for the people around here,” he tells an American Red Cross disaster team. “There are so many people who have lost everything.”

The Red Cross information sheet, Returning Home After a Hurricane or Flood, can help keep you safe after the storm. A mobile-friendly version is also available on www.redcross.org/mobile.

How You Can Help – Financial and Blood Donations

In addition to inflicting billions of dollars in damage along the East Coast, Hurricane Irene has also affected the blood supply. Since the storm hit, 72 blood drives have been cancelled, leading to a shortfall of 2,444 units of blood. These numbers are expected to rise, given the storm damage and power outages in many areas. The Red Cross is urging immediate blood and platelet donations in areas unaffected by this storm and asks that people in affected areas consider donating blood once it’s safe to do so. To schedule an appointment, please call 1-800-RED CROSS or go to www.redcrossblood.org.

Those who want to help can also make a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief. This gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for and provide shelter, food, emotional support and other assistance in response to disasters. Visit www.redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS; you can also text the word “REDCROSS” to 90999 to make a $10 donation. Contributions may also be sent to local American Red Cross chapters or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.

Allen Melton stands outside his house with Red Cross worker Eileen Guy. Melton and his wife returned home on Monday to find their house damaged by floodwaters.

Safety after the storm

The Red Cross information sheet, Returning Home After a Hurricane or Flood, can help keep you safe after the storm. A mobile-friendly version is also available on www.redcross.org/mobile.

30-Aug-11 3:00 PM

Hurricane Irene - Get Help Now

Sun, 28 Aug 2011 02:00:00 GMT

Hurricane Irene - Get Help Now

27-Aug-11 9:00 PM

Houston Area Red Cross Volunteers Head North in Advance of Hurricane Irene

Sat, 27 Aug 2011 01:00:00 GMT

(August 26, 2011) – Five Disaster Volunteers from the Greater Houston Area Chapter of the American Red Cross are being deployed to the Northeast in advance of Hurricane Irene’s landfall. This is part of the American Red Cross’ nationwide response to Hurricane Irene, which is expected to affect a large area along the Eastern seaboard. Irene is a huge storm with strong winds extending far inland which could affect areas miles away from the coast.

Our nationwide network of Red Cross Disaster Volunteers is trained to provide shelter, food and emotional support. The affected area covers a huge geography and people will likely need help for weeks, perhaps months. To meet those needs, the Red Cross is mobilizing volunteers and supplies from North Carolina to New England.

· We have more than 200 emergency response vehicles – nearly two-thirds of our total fleet -- now assigned to states that could be impacted by Hurricane Irene. These trucks go into neighborhoods to distribute meals, snacks and clean-up supplies.

· We are sending an initial 60,000 shelf stable meals to Richmond VA, and 60,000 to Massachusetts; and we are working with the Southern Baptists to open kitchens and serve approximately 250,000 meals per day once the storm passes and we are able to move trailers into the areas.

· We have already deployed hundreds of trained volunteers to the affected areas, and we have thousands more volunteers that are on alert to help.

· Last night hundreds of people sought refuge in Red Cross shelters in North Carolina and Maryland.

· The Red Cross has additional shelters open in Delaware, New Jersey and New York where residents are being encouraged to evacuate. And we’ll be opening more shelters in other states as the storm moves up the coast.

· People can find open Red Cross shelters on an interactive Google map at redcross.org or by downloading the free Red Cross shelter app for their iPhone. They should also follow to their local media – radio, newspaper and television – to find out where local shelters are.

· Like every other agency, Red Cross phone lines may be overwhelmed after the storm, so if people don’t have access to the internet, they should listen to your local media outlets for the locations of shelters near you.

· Many areas could be inaccessible after the storm meaning first responders can’t get in and Red Cross can’t offer services there. They need to leave when told and make plans to take care of their loved ones for at least 72 hours.

The Red Cross Safe and Well website helps people let friends and family know where they are as Hurricane Irene moves up the coast. They can register for Safe and Well by going to redcross.org.

· Safe and Well is a secure and easy-to-use online tool that helps families connect during emergencies.

· They can also call a family member or friend with internet access and ask them to register them.

Irene could affect blood collections along the East Coast, at a time when the blood supply is already low. The Red Cross is urging those who are eligible to give blood prior to the storm’s arrival.

How People Can Help

During large disasters, people want to help. We want to remind the public that the Red Cross does not accept donations of goods for several reasons: we don’t have warehouses to store items; we don’t have volunteers to sort them and it’s costly to transport them to the disaster area. If people have items, please give them to a local charity. There are many excellent ones in the Houston area that have the structure to accept donated items.

To assist the American Red Cross in its Disaster Relief efforts, please click, text or call to donate. Your gift brings hope to those in need.

· Visit www.redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

· Contributions may also be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.

· Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for and provide shelter, food, emotional support and other assistance in response to disasters.

To Volunteer:

We greatly appreciate people wanting to volunteer, but they’re most useful when they’re trained. Red Cross courses will enable them to support local disaster responses, including residential fires, to gain some response experience as all disaster responses start locally.

The first step in becoming a Greater Houston Area Red Cross volunteer is to take the New Volunteer Orientation. There is one scheduled for September 7^th, 2011. Sign up online at houstonredcross.org.
After taking orientation, people who want to volunteer for disasters can take Red Cross Disaster Courses. Many of our Disaster volunteers assist with local and national disasters.

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26-Aug-11 8:00 PM

Red Cross Opening Shelters, Mobilizing Equipment As Hurricane Irene Heads Toward East Coast

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 18:00:00 GMT

Residents urged to heed evacuation orders.

WASHINGTON, August 25, 2011 – Hurricane Irene is headed toward the East Coast and the American Red Cross is mobilizing disaster workers and equipment along much of the eastern seaboard to help those in the path of this powerful storm.

Hurricane Irene is predicted to be the largest storm to hit the East Coast in more than 70 years, and could threaten several big population centers. A hurricane watch has been issued for the North Carolina coast and the Red Cross has opened shelters in the state as evacuation orders go into effect. In addition, more than 200 Red Cross mobile feeding vehicles are heading towards the coast to help people in the path of the storm.

"The Red Cross is moving volunteers, vehicles and supplies, getting ready for a response effort that spans nearly the entire East Coast," said Gail McGovern, president and CEO of the American Red Cross. "While we're getting ready at the Red Cross, we want everyone in the storm's path to get ready as well by getting a disaster kit, making a family emergency plan, and listening to local officials regarding evacuations."

Dozens of shelters are being prepared all along the East Coast. People can find open Red Cross shelters by viewing an interactive Google map at www.redcross.org or by downloading the free Red Cross shelter app for their iPhone from the iTunes store. A mobile-friendly version of the Hurricane Safety Checklist is now available for smart phone users to download at www.redcross.org/mobile.

It’s important that those affected by the storm stay in contact with loved ones and the Red Cross Safe and Well website can help them do that. Safe and Well is a secure, easy-to-use online tool to help families connect in an emergency. People can register by visiting the Red Cross web site or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

A hurricane watch means hurricane conditions could be a threat within 48 hours. An upgrade to a hurricane warning will mean hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours. Those in the affected area should finish their storm preparations and evacuate if authorities ask them to do so.

Hurricane Irene has caused significant damage in the southern Bahamas and the Bahamas Red Cross is managing shelters and helping people displaced by the storm. A regional disaster management expert is headed to the Bahamas today to assist with disaster assessment and response. In the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Red Cross is mobilizing volunteers as flooding, damage to homes and impassable roads are left in the storm’s wake. The United Nations is reporting hundreds of homes have been damaged and it is difficult to communicate with many localities.

In addition, Irene could affect blood collections along the East Coast at a time when the nation’s blood supply is already low. The Red Cross is urging those who are eligible to give blood prior to the storm’s arrival. Donating blood now, before the storm, will help ensure blood is available in the aftermath of Irene should conditions prohibit people from traveling to blood collections.

Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states), meet height and weight requirements (110 pounds or more, depending on their height), and who are generally in good health may be eligible to donate blood. To schedule an appointment, please call 1-800-RED CROSS or visit us online at www.redcrossblood.org.

Red Cross Annual Disaster Giving Program (ADGP) members support Red Cross disaster efforts by pledging donations to the Red Cross in advance of major disasters to ensure an immediate response to help people affected. ADGP members responsible for these generous donations include 3M, Altria Group, Aon, Caterpillar, Cisco Foundation , ConAgra Foods , Costco Wholesale Corporation, Darden Restaurants, Inc., Dr Pepper Snapple Group , FedEx Corporation, GE Foundation, The Home Depot Foundation , John Deere Foundation, Kimberly-Clark Corporation, Kraft Foods, Lowe's Companies, Inc., Merck, Morgan Stanley, Nationwide Insurance Foundation, Northrop Grumman, Optum, Ryder Charitable Foundation, Southwest Airlines, State Farm, State Street Foundation, Target, The TJX Companies, Inc., UnitedHealthcare, UPS and Walmart.

American Red Cross disaster preparedness starts long before a hurricane makes landfall, beginning with keeping supplies and equipment on stand-by all year to help people in need. On average, the Red Cross spends about $450 million on disaster relief every year. If someone would like to support Red Cross disaster efforts, they can make a donation to American Red Cross Disaster Relief by visiting www.redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS, texting the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation, or sending contributions to their local Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.

About the American Red Cross:

25-Aug-11 1:00 PM

Red Cross Urges Those in the Possible Path of Hurricane Irene to Get Ready Now

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 18:00:00 GMT

Tuesday, August 23, 2011 — Irene, the first hurricane of 2011, is pounding Puerto Rico today with heavy rain and winds as high as 80 miles per hour after leaving many residents on St. Thomas and St. Croix without power Sunday. Irene is expected to gain strength as the week goes on, threatening Florida and the southeast states as early as Thursday.

The American Red Cross opened shelters on St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John and is working closely with government partners in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands to coordinate any relief services that may be needed. The Red Cross has warehouses on the islands equipped with thousands of cots and blankets, kerosene lanterns and comfort and clean-up supplies.

Shop Redcrossstore.org for all your hurricane preparedness needs.

Experts predict the storm will impact Haiti and the Dominican Republic on Tuesday. In Haiti, the Red Cross is busy preparing for the storm, working to help people in vulnerable camps prepare for the storm, and putting emergency disaster risk reduction teams on alert.

The American Red Cross has been working in Haiti’s camps for many months on such activities as emergency first aid courses, training in early warning systems (megaphones and whistles), projects such as digging ditches and sandbagging hillsides, preparing evacuation routes and teaching children about disaster preparedness.

Red Cross officials are preparing to respond along the East Coast if needed, and urge anyone in Irene’s projected path to get ready too. Trained disaster relief workers are on alert, along with Red Cross mobile feeding vehicles and trucks equipped with communications technology.

“Just because the U.S. has largely been spared from hurricanes over the past several years is no reason to believe Irene will change course and go out to sea,” said Charley Shimanski, senior vice president of Disaster Services for the Red Cross. “People who live in or who are vacationing in the areas that could be affected by this storm need to get ready now.”

It’s important to know what the hurricane warnings mean. A hurricane watch means hurricane conditions could threaten the area within 48 hours. People should stay informed and be ready to act if a warning is issued. A hurricane warning means hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours. Those in the affected area should finish their storm preparations and leave the area if authorities ask them to do so.

The Red Cross has steps people can take this week as the storm approaches to help ensure their safety and the safety of their loved ones.

Before the hurricane:

Check your emergency supplies and replace or restock as needed. Your disaster kit should contain items such as gallons of water, non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food and sanitation and personal hygiene items. More information about what you should include is available on the Red Cross web site.
Create an evacuation plan with members of your household and practice it to cut down on any confusion.
Plan routes to your community’s shelters, register family members with special needs as required.
Make plans for your pets.

If a hurricane is predicted for your area:

Bring items inside that can be picked up by the wind.
Turn your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest settings and keep them closed as much as possible so food will last longer if the power goes out.
Turn off any propane tanks and unplug your small appliances.
Fill your vehicle’s gas tank.
Close windows, doors and hurricane shutters. If you don’t have hurricane shutters, close and board up your windows and doors with plywood.
Listen to local authorities and evacuate if advised to do so. Be careful to avoid flooded roads and washed out bridges.

After a hurricane:

Return home only when officials say it is safe.
Keep away from loose or dangling power lines and report them to the power company.
Stay out of any building that has water around it.
Avoid drinking or preparing food with tap water until you’re sure it’s not contaminated.
Keep your animals under your direct control./li>

23-Aug-11 1:00 PM

So Far, 2011 A Costly Disaster Year

Rangel - noemail@houstonredcross.org — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 20:00:00 GMT

Experts estimate disasters caused more than $35 billion in losses

Thursday, August 18, 2011 — It’s been a costly year for disasters in the United States and the American Red Cross has been responding all over the country to help the thousands of people affected by flooding, tornadoes, drought and extreme heat, wildfires and other emergencies.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) estimates the country’s economic loss attributable to disasters at more than $35 billion so far with several disasters each adding up to losses of $1 billion or more. The country is in the midst of hurricane season, which experts predict could be very active, so these numbers could grow.

The disasters in the NOAA report include:

flooding in the upper Midwest (Montana, North and South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas and Missouri)
flooding along the Mississippi River, especially in Arkansas, Tennessee, Missouri and Louisiana
extreme drought and heat combined with wildfires in Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arizona, Kansas, Arkansas and Louisiana
deadly tornadoes in the Midwest and southeast (Missouri, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas, Georgia, Tennessee, Virginia, Iowa, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, Georgia, North and South Carolina, Tennessee)

Nearly 14,000 Red Cross disaster workers from across the country supported 46 relief operations spread over more than half of the country this spring. They opened 287 shelters, served 3.5 million meals and snacks, distributed 1.7 million relief items, and provided 81,000 mental health and health consultations.

Their work is not over. More than 100 people in North Dakota remain in shelters after the disastrous flooding in the Minot area. Every day chapters respond to smaller disasters such as home fires. One fire involving multiple families in Montgomery County, MD, resulted in 85 residents coming to a Red Cross shelter.

Every year, the Red Cross spends an average of approximately $450 million preparing for and responding to nearly 70,000 disasters across the country and around the world. This includes both large disasters such as hurricanes and earthquakes and smaller disasters such as house fires.

If you would like to help, please consider making a donation today by visiting www.redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or texting the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. Contributions may also be sent to your local Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.

18-Aug-11 3:00 PM

Red Cross Tips Help Kids Stay Safe When Home Alone

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 16:00:00 GMT

August 2011 — As children around the nation are returning to school, many of them will be spending time home alone after school until their parents get home from work.

The American Red Cross has steps parents and children can take to make these after-school hours safer and less stressful.

“The first thing parents need to decide is if their child is old enough to stay home alone,” said Dr. David Markenson, chair of the American Red Cross Scientific Advisory Council and pediatric expert. “If not, other options include after-school child care, programs at schools and youth clubs, or enrolling the child in youth sports programs.”

“When a child is old enough will vary from child to child based on their individual development, comfort and maturity. Parents and guardians should consider their child’s maturity level and ask if he or she would be comfortable being left alone for an extended period of time,” Markenson added. “If so, parents and guardians should develop a home safety plan and discuss it and practice it with their children.”

The Red Cross recommends that parents and guardians take the following steps if a child will be home alone after school.

If the child is going to go home after school, it’s a good idea to have them call to check in when they get home. For an older child, set ground rules about whether other kids can come over when the parents are absent, whether cooking is an option, whether they can leave the home.

Other steps that parents and guardians can include in their home safety plans:

Post an emergency phone list where the children can see it. Include 9-1-1, the parents work and cell numbers, numbers for neighbors, and the numbers for anyone else who is close and trusted.
Identify neighbors whose home your child can go to in case of an emergency that requires your child to leave your home.
Practice an emergency plan with the child so they know what to do in case of fire, injury, or other emergencies. Write the plan down and make sure the child knows where it is.
Make sure the first aid kit is stocked and stored where your children can find it; keep it out of reach of young children.
Let children know where the flashlights are kept. Make sure that the batteries are fresh, and that the child knows how to use them.
Remove or safely store in locked areas dangerous items like guns, ammunition, knives, hand tools, power tools, razor blades, scissors, and other objects that can cause injury.
Make sure potential poisons like detergents, polishes, pesticides, car-care fluids, lighter fluid and lamp oils are stored in locked cabinets or out of the reach of children.
Make sure medicine is kept in a locked storage place or out of the reach of children.
Install safety covers on all unused electrical outlets.
Limit any cooking a young child can do. Make sure at least one approved smoke alarm is installed and operating on each level of the home.
Limit the time the child spends in front of the television or computer. Activate parental controls. Use programs that limit the sites children can visit, restrict chat sites and allow parents to monitor online activity.

Safety Steps for Children
When talking to kids about being at home alone, parents should stress the following steps, and post them somewhere to remind the child about what they should, or shouldn’t, do until mom, dad or caregiver get home:

Lock the door and make sure all the windows are closed and locked.
If the home has an electronic security system, children should learn how to turn it on and have it on when home alone.
Never open the door to strangers. Always check before opening the door to anyone, looking out through a peephole or window first. Only open the door for people that parents and guardians have given you permission to let in the house. If unsure, contact your caregiver.
Never open the door to delivery people or service representatives. Ask delivery people to leave the package at the door or tell them to come back at another time. Service representatives, such as a TV cable installer, should have an appointment when an adult is home.
Never tell someone on the telephone that the parents are not at home. Say something like “He or she is busy right now. Can I take a message?”
Do not talk about being home alone on public websites. Kids should be cautious about sharing information about their location when using chat rooms or posting on social networks.
Never leave the house without permission. If it’s okay to go outside, children should contact their parents and tell them where they are going, when they are leaving, and when they will return. If mom and dad are still at work, children should call them when they leave and when they return home.
Do not go outside to check out an unusual noise. If the noise worries the child, they should call their parents, an adult, or the police.
Don’t talk to strangers.
Do not have friends over to visit when your parents aren’t at home. Do not let anyone inside who is using drugs or alcohol, even if you know them.
If the child smells smoke or hears a fire or smoke alarm, they should get outside and ask a neighbor to call the fire department.

Consider Babysitter’s Training for Youth Taking Care of Others
Many tweens and teens are responsible for watching younger siblings. The Red Cross Babysitter’s Training course provides 11 to 15 year-olds with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and responsibly provide care for children and infants. Participants learn basic child care and first aid, develop leadership skills and learn how to develop a babysitting business. Contact your local Red Cross or visit www.redcross.org/babysitting for more information.

16-Aug-11 11:00 AM

Blistering Heat and Drought Heighten Wildfire Risk

Fri, 12 Aug 2011 19:00:00 GMT

Record heat and exceptionally dry conditions continue over large parts of the South and South-Central states, prolonging this summer’s suffering and heightening the danger of wildfires.

In Texas, the Forest Service has responded to 141 fires in the last seven days. Close to 60 wildfires occurred in Oklahoma from Friday to Monday, and 22 fires have been reported in Arkansas.

Red Cross chapters have stepped up efforts to provide hydrating beverages and snacks to first responders as they battle both house fires and wildfires in the sweltering heat. In the Tulsa area, where multiple wildfires have recently erupted, the Red Cross canteened nearly continuously for five days and nights beginning last Friday.

In Central Texas, the Red Cross has been canteening for firefighters as they battle range fires, and have also opened respite centers and shelters for evacuated residents. The Red Cross chapter in the Dallas-Fort Worth area has begun a campaign to ask for the public’s help in replenishing their water and Gatorade supply for firefighters and police.

Powerful storms that hit Oklahoma earlier this week knocked out electricity in many areas. As a result, five cooling stations were opened and operated by Red Cross volunteers across Oklahoma on Tuesday.

Cooling stations have also been opened across the South. Partnering with the county emergency management office, the Red Cross has opened cooling stations a record 10 times in Charlotte, N.C., this summer, and sent volunteers to help run a cooling center open in Memphis late last week.

Heat Safety
As sweltering conditions linger, heat safety remains a priority. Excessive heat can lead to sunburn, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

If someone is experiencing heat cramps in the legs or abdomen, get them to a cooler place, have them rest, lightly stretch the affected muscle, and replenish their fluids with a half a glass of cool water every 15 minutes.

If someone is exhibiting signs of heat exhaustion (cool, moist, pale or flushed skin, heavy sweating, headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, exhaustion), move them to a cooler place, remove or loosen tight clothing and apply cool, wet cloths or towels to the skin. Fan the person. If they are conscious, give small amounts of cool water to drink. Make sure the person drinks slowly. Watch for changes in condition. If the person refuses water, vomits or begins to lose consciousness, call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number.

Heat stroke is life-threatening. Signs include hot, red skin which may be dry or moist; changes in consciousness; vomiting; and high body temperature. Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number immediately. Move the person to a cooler place. Quickly cool the person’s body by giving care as you would for heat exhaustion.

Remember:

Never leave children or pets alone in enclosed vehicles.
Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.
Use a buddy system when working in excessive heat.
Take frequent breaks if working outdoors.
Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.
Check on animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat. Ensure they have water and a shady place to rest.

Visit Redcross.org for more information on what to do during heat waves and droughts.

Wildfire Preparedness
Being prepared can be your best offense when it comes to wildfires. Plan two ways out of your neighborhood in case one is blocked. Set up a place for family members to meet outside your neighborhood in case you can’t get home or need to evacuate. Arrange for temporary housing at a friend or relative’s home outside the area.

Other steps you can take include:

Make sure driveway entrances and your house number or address are clearly marked.
Identify and maintain an adequate water source outside your home, such as a small pond, cistern, well or swimming pool.
Set aside household items that can be used as fire tools: a rake, ax, hand saw or chain saw, bucket and shovel. You may need to fight small fires before emergency responders arrive.
Select building materials and plants that resist fire.
Regularly clean roofs and gutters.

If a Wildfire is Reported in Your Area
Be ready to leave at a moment’s notice, and listen to local radio and television stations for updated emergency information.

Back your car into the garage or park it in an open space facing the direction of escape. Confine your pets to one room so you can find them if you need to get out quickly. Listen to local radio and television stations for updated information, and be ready to leave at a moment’s notice.

To limit your exposure to smoke:

Keep indoor air clean by closing windows and doors to prevent outside smoke from getting in.
Use the recycle or recirculate mode on the air conditioner in your home or car. If you do not have air conditioning and it is too hot to stay inside with closed windows, seek shelter elsewhere.
When smoke levels are high, do not use anything that burns and adds to indoor air pollution, such as candles, fireplaces and gas stoves. Do not vacuum because it stirs up particles that are already inside your home.
If you have asthma or another lung disease, follow your health care provider's advice and seek medical care if your symptoms worsen.

12-Aug-11 2:00 PM

Red Cross Offers Tips On How To Stay Safe As Extreme Heat Continues

Melissa Rangel - noemail@houstonredcross.org — Sun, 07 Aug 2011 14:00:00 GMT

Record-setting temperatures and extreme drought are still plaguing most of the southern region of the United States, a hazardous situation for people living there. The hot weather is especially dangerous for athletes practicing for their various fall sports.

The American Red Cross has steps residents of the affected states can take to help ensure their well-being during the ongoing heat wave, with special advice for team officials to follow to help ensure the safety of their players.

“Keeping athletes safe during extreme temperatures is as important as getting them ready for the upcoming season,” said Dr. David Markenson, chair of the American Red Cross Scientific Advisory Council. “One of the most important thing athletes can do is stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids like water or sports drinks with electrolytes before, during and after practice – even if you are not thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol,” Markenson added.

During the hot weather, team practices should be scheduled for early in the day and later in the evening to avoid exposing players to the hottest times of the day. Other steps teams, schools and parents should take to protect their athletes include:

Allow athletes to get acclimated to the heat by reducing the intensity of practice until they are more accustomed to it.
Make frequent, longer breaks a regular part of practice. About every 20 minutes stop for fluids and try to keep the athletes in the shade if possible.
Reduce the amount of heavy equipment—like football pads—athletes wear in extremely hot, humid weather.
Dress athletes, when appropriate, in net-type jerseys or light-weight, light-colored, cotton T-shirts and shorts.
Know the signs of heat-related emergencies and monitor athletes closely.

“Knowing the signs of heat-related emergencies and how to help someone who is suffering from the heat is vital,” Markenson stressed. “Coaches and parents need to be vigilant in watching for signs of heat-related emergencies. Athletes should inform their coaches, teachers or parents if they are not feeling well.”

The hot, dry weather is expected to continue for at least the next week in areas of the south. Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas have been particularly hard hit by the heat wave. Red Cross chapters have opened cooling centers in some areas and supported first responders as they answer numerous calls for grass blazes and home fires.

The Red Cross has steps people should follow to help ensure their safety as the heat continues:

If someone does not have air conditioning, they should choose places to get relief from the heat during the warmest part of the day, such as schools, libraries, theaters or malls.
Temperatures inside a vehicle quickly reach dangerous levels. Never leave children or pets alone in enclosed vehicles.
People should stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids even if they aren’t thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.
During the heat, it’s best to eat small meals and eat more often.
Avoid extreme temperature changes.
Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.
Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.
Postpone outdoor games and activities.
Use a buddy system when working in excessive heat.
If someone must work outdoors, they should take frequent breaks.
Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.
Check on your animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat.

Heat Wave Safety

Power Outages

Shop Redcrossstore.org for all your preparedness needs.

Knowing the signs of heat-related emergencies and how to help someone who is suffering from the heat is important.

Heat cramps are muscular pains and spasms that usually occur in the legs or abdomen caused by exposure to high heat and humidity and loss of fluids and electrolytes. Heat cramps are often an early sign that the body is having trouble with the heat. If someone is experiencing heat cramps:

Get the person to a cooler place and have him or her rest in a comfortable position. Stretching, massaging and icing the affected muscle may help.
Give a half glass of cool water or a sports drink with electrolytes every 15 minutes. Do not give liquids with alcohol or caffeine in them, as they can make conditions worse.

Heat exhaustion is caused by a combination of exercise induced heat and fluid and electrolyte loss from sweating. Signs of heat exhaustion include cool, moist, pale or flushed skin; heavy sweating; headache; nausea; dizziness; weakness; and exhaustion. To help someone with these symptoms:

Move the person to a cooler place. Remove or loosen tight clothing. Spray him or her with water or apply cool, wet cloths or towels to the skin. Fan the person. If the person is conscious, give small amounts of cool water cool water or a sports drink with electrolytes to drink. Make sure the person drinks slowly. Watch for changes in his or her condition.
If the person refuses water, vomits or begins to lose consciousness, call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number.

Heat stroke (also known as sunstroke) is a life-threatening condition in which a person’s temperature control system stops working and the body is unable to cool itself.

Signs of heat stroke include those of heat exhaustion and hot, red skin which may be dry or moist; change or loss of consciousness; seizures; vomiting; and high body temperature.
Heat stroke is life-threatening. Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number immediately.
Move the person to a cooler place. Quickly cool the person’s body by immersing them up to their neck in cold water if possible. If unable to immerse them, continue rapid cooling by applying bags of ice or cold packs wrapped in a cloth to the wrists, ankles, groin, neck and armpits, spraying with water and/or fanning.

Learn how to prevent and respond to heat-related and other emergencies by taking a First Aid/CPR/AED course. Contact the Houston Red Cross to take a class in your area.

7-Aug-11 9:00 AM

Red Cross Prepares for Tropical Storm Emily

Wed, 03 Aug 2011 20:00:00 GMT

Wednesday, August 03, 2011 — With a tropical storm bearing down on the Caribbean Wednesday, the American Red Cross and Red Cross societies across the region were busy preparing for heavy rains and strong winds.

As of Wednesday morning, tropical storm warnings were in effect for Puerto Rico, Viequez, Culebra, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Southeast Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands. A tropical storm warning means that tropical storm conditions are expected somewhere within the warning area within 36 hours. A warning for the US Virgin Islands was discontinued.

In Haiti, where hundreds of thousands of people are still living under tarps and tents more than 18 months after last year’s earthquake, the Haitian authorities put the country on alert, citing the threat of persistent and heavy rains, strong winds, flooding and mudslides. The government said the risk is greatest in the departments of the South, Southeast, Grand Anse, Nippes, the West (including greater Port-au-Prince), the Center, Artibonite and North.

The Red Cross network has emergency response teams on standby in Haiti as the storm approaches. A Red Cross disaster operations center has been established in Hinche to help leaders coordinate a national emergency response. Stocks of emergency relief items also have been pre-positioned at sites around the country in order to be readily available.

In cooperation with local ‘vigilance committees' that help mobilize camp populations, the American Red Cross is implementing programs such as early warning systems that will help people be prepared for disasters and, if possible, move out of harm's way. The color-coded system of flags is supplemented with bullhorns and whistles to alert residents to potential risks. Children have learned about the warning systems and other preparedness measures through songs, skits and games taught in a series of workshops in the camps.

Other aspects of the American Red Cross disaster risk reduction program include emergency first aid courses, clearing and marking safe evacuation routes, digging drainage ditches, sandbagging precarious hillsides, and distributing waterproof bags to protect important documents. More than 40 camps in and around Port-au-Prince have received disaster preparedness training from the American Red Cross, whose programs in this area are being emulated by partners in the Red Cross network and other aid groups working in Haiti.

“Our teams have been out there every day, making sure disaster preparedness is not forgotten,” said Matt Marek, head of programs for the American Red Cross delegation in Haiti. “Our focus first is on preparedness and, once the storm hits, we’ll be ready to respond. The Red Cross has emergency response teams on standby and we’ve pre-positioned supplies around the country.”

The global Red Cross network has also increased the distribution of text messages with information about disaster preparedness.

The emphasis on awareness and preparedness has long been an important part of Red Cross disaster risk reduction programs, and these programs are due to be expanded to dozens more camps in Haiti the months ahead.

The American Red Cross is also coordinating with our Red Cross partners, United Nations agencies, Haiti's government and other humanitarian organizations – a network that is helping residents to better prepare for severe weather and that would collectively respond to meet any resulting needs following a major storm in Haiti.

In the neighboring Dominican Republic, the Red Cross has a fully activated crisis management room and room. It has also activated national emergency response teams that will be deployed as needed. A community in Monte Plata province has been evacuated as a precautionary measure, and the Red Cross is providing shelter and basic health care to the evacuated people.

Thanks to the generosity of its donors, the American Red Cross was able to help Haitians receive emergency relief and is now providing longer-term support and training to help them recover and rebuild. In coming years the American Red Cross will continue to invest in Haiti relief and recovery programs and projects until every donated dollar is spent. More information about the Haiti response can be found at www.redcross.org/Haiti.

3-Aug-11 3:00 PM

Statewide Crews Ready for Tropical Storm Don

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 18:00:00 GMT

Houston Red Cross has its Volunteers & Vehicles on Standby

July 29, 2011 – Statewide preparations by Red Cross chapters have been underway since Tuesday in preparation for Tropical Storm Don. The storm is predicted to make landfall as early as Friday evening around Corpus Christi and travel through the South Central Hill Country to El Paso.

“Rain is badly needed in Texas, but Red Cross knows a storm of this size can produce flash flooding and displace hundreds of families,” said Debra Luera , CEO of Coastal Bend Red Cross Chapter in Corpus Christi. “The irony is…we still have teams responding to wildfires across the state, and now we are preparing for flooding.”

Chapters in the State of Texas are alerting shelter volunteers, assembling resources, and working closely with state emergency management and community partner. Equipment and resources are in position to provide shelter, food, mobile feeding, clean-up supplies, and mental health if flooding occurs.

Emergency shelters will welcome distraught evacuees to a safe, warm environment to ride out the storm. Red Cross volunteers will provide food, first aid, and understanding shoulders as families wait to hear if they can return home.

The Red Cross offers the following tips for those in an affected area to stay safer:

Continue listening to local radio or television stations or a NOAA Weather Radio for updated information and instructions. If you are away from home, return only when authorities say it is safe to do so.
Listen for Red Cross shelter information on all possible media outlets.
Gather important papers and valuables to take with you.
If evacuating to Red Cross shelter, please bring blankets, pillows, change of clothing for 3 days, and medications.
Make arrangements for pets while you are away.

All Red Cross assistance is made possible by donations from our communities. If you would like to help people affected by Tropical Storm Don flooding, please contact (Chapter name) or visit www.redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS.

In the days and weeks to come, Red Cross teams will be coordinating with emergency officials and local community partners to help residents impacted by the flood get back on their feet.

29-Jul-11 1:00 PM

American Red Cross Pledges Up to $1 Million for Horn of Africa

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 15:00:00 GMT

July 28, 2011 – The American Red Cross today announced a pledge of up to $1 million for the evolving humanitarian crisis in eastern Africa, continuing its history of support to the region.

With 2011 classified as the driest year on record in the eastern Horn of Africa, the health, livelihoods and food security of millions of Somalis, Ethiopians and Kenyans are at serious risk.

“The need is dire at best as families grapple with the lack of food, water and health services, and the American Red Cross is eager to support our local partners that are tackling malnutrition, providing water and medical care, stabilizing livelihoods, and mitigating other consequences of this complex crisis,” said Apu Patel, regional director for Africa with the American Red Cross.

With water sources dwindling, rural families are increasingly consuming untreated water, collected directly from streams and rivers, putting them at serious risk from waterborne diseases such as cholera and typhoid. Fields used by farmers for grazing livestock have dried up in the worsening drought, causing many families to uproot and migrate in search of viable food and water sources. The rising cost of fuel and food as well as political insecurity in some areas of Somalia has also exacerbated problems.

“Many people are living in the open or in makeshift camps,” Patel said. “They represent a heavy burden for the host communities that share their scarce resources with them. Most of the displaced have nothing left to sell and cannot buy food, which is resulting in even higher malnutrition rates among displaced people.”

In the face of this growing humanitarian tragedy, the Somali Red Crescent, with support from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), is expanding its existing outpatient therapeutic feeding programs in southern Somalia. Together, they are also launching an additional feeding program for malnourished children under five and other vulnerable groups, such as pregnant and lactating women, and recruiting additional nurses and nutritionists to visit people in the worst affected areas. The two organizations are also complementing the feeding programs with targeted food distributions.

In Somalia, Red Cross and Red Crescent teams are also offering medical treatments as well as distributing seeds, farming tools, irrigation pumps and fishing equipment to help stabilize livelihoods. And in Kenya and Ethiopia, the Red Cross is helping those affected by the drought through school feeding programs, well rehabilitation, water trucking and general food distribution.

Even with these activities, the region’s current and predicted need far outweighs the humanitarian response. With no likelihood of improvement until early 2012, the situation will require large scale and sustained humanitarian assistance.

“The tragedy in the Horn of Africa is chronic, and even as we respond with emergency aid for these new developments, we must also work on longer-term solutions,” Patel said. “The global Red Cross and Red Crescent network was one of the first organizations to sound the alarm and launch an international response, but the solution to this crisis is a long-term commitment to building up resilience and capacity within the region’s most vulnerable communities.”

Gifts to the American Red Cross can support our disaster relief efforts to help those affected by the drought and current humanitarian emergency in Horn of Africa. On those rare occasions when donations exceed American Red Cross expenses for a specific disaster, contributions are used to prepare for and serve victims of other disasters. The public may visit www.redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS. Contributions may also be sent to local American Red Cross chapters or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.

29-Jul-11 10:00 AM

Disaster Alert:: Tropical Storm Don in Texas

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 19:00:00 GMT

Disaster Alert

Texas – A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for the Texas coastline. On the forecast track, the center of Don should move through the Southern and Central Gulf of Mexico today and approach the Texas Coast on late Friday or early Saturday.

The State Disaster Coordinating Team was activated and communication between Regional and Community chapters as well as National Headquarters will be ongoing in anticipation of Don.

Hurricane Safety Checklist

Hurricane Safety Checklist - En Espanol

28-Jul-11 2:00 PM

Councilmember Costello Welcomes Runner Raising Funds for Red Cross

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 01:00:00 GMT

By Running from Pole to Pole

WHO:
City Councilmember Steve Costello

WHAT:
Welcome to Houston Pat Farmer, an Australian endurance runner, who is passing through Houston on his run from the North Pole to the South Pole to raise money for the Red Cross in the United States, Canada and Australia

WHERE:

Steps of City Hall

WHEN:

Friday, July 22, 2011 @ 2:00 pm

Pat Farmer is a multiple world record holder for endurance running and former member of Australian’s Parliament. Pat has raised millions for many causes during his 20-year running career.

Now he is running from the North Pole to the South Pole to raise $100 million for the Red Cross. The American Red Cross funds raised by Farmer will go to its Disaster Relief program. The Canadian Red Cross funds will be used to improve mother and child health in developing countries. The Australian Red Cross funds will be used to bring clean water to developing countries.

Farmer is averaging 52 miles per day. For more information, please see Farmer at www.poletopolerun.com.

21-Jul-11 8:00 PM

Red Cross Assists Residents in North Dakota

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 18:00:00 GMT

Friday, July 15, 2011 — Floodwaters are receding very slowly in Minot, North Dakota, allowing some residents to return to their neighborhoods, while others remain under evacuation orders. Nearly 300 people are still seeking refuge in American Red Cross shelters, while others are turning to the Red Cross for help with the stress of the disaster and materials to help them clean their homes.

More than 11,000 residents were forced to evacuate at the height of the slow-moving flood. Officials report more than 4,000 homes have been damaged, including nearly 2,400 homes that received extensive damage after being flooded with as much as ten feet of water.

To date, the Red Cross has managed five shelters in the Minot area, providing more than 5,800 overnight stays. Red Cross workers have manned six feeding sites, serving more than 170,000 meals and snacks. The Red Cross has deployed 22 Emergency Response Vehicles (ERVs) to help with mobile feeding and distribution of supplies, and provided more than 2,000 items like brooms, mops, and sponges and comfort items like toothbrushes, soap, deodorant and other basic necessities throughout affected communities.

Stress and anxiety are running high in the community. To address this, the Red Cross and Medcenter One gathered people together to offer coping strategies to deal with the taxing situation. Red Cross mental health workers were also on hand to help if needed.

Dr. Mark Doerner, a Medcenter One psychologist and Red Cross volunteer, reminded those present that just as the receding of the flood waters is going to take a few weeks, the stress and anxiety are going to be long term as well.

The communities affected by the flood have shown incredible strength, but the Red Cross is seeing signs of stress among flood evacuees. As people return home, exhaustion sets in, and the shock of the damage can cause an entire new set of emotions, such as grief, desperation and depression.

Doerner advised that people need to be prepared to pay attention to their emotional reactions and to the reactions of friends and neighbors. Pulling together and asking for assistance are valuable coping tools. Another important coping strategy is taking care of your physical and emotional needs. He recommended the three “R’s” as good ways to cope with disaster stress—rest, routine and relationships.

The Red Cross has opened two service delivery sites to help provide Minot residents with information on the options available to them as they return to their homes and begin the long process of cleaning and rebuilding.

“We believe that taking time to help families get their lives started again is one of the most important things the Red Cross can do here,” said John Duck, Red Cross client casework chief in Minot. “There is a wide range of resources open to residents to assist them in nearly every aspect of the recovery process, and the Red Cross can help point them in the right direction at these service delivery sites.”

Red Cross workers are also distributing cleaning materials throughout Minot. The water system in the area is contaminated, and all tap water has to be boiled before consumption. The Red Cross is delivering bottled water to the different neighborhoods.

The Red Cross has been working with many partners to help ensure the people of Minot get the help they need. The North Dakota and Minnesota National Guard have been a huge help to the success of the Red Cross relief efforts in North Dakota.

National Guard troops helped get Red Cross emergency response vehicles through checkpoints, helped unload initial emergency freight on behalf of the Red Cross and worked hand-in-hand with the Red Cross moving displaced homeowners into the Minot State University Dome.

The National Guard is also providing security at the University shelter. "Security is paramount for the residents of this shelter,” said Ron Frank, director of public affairs for the Red Cross operation in Minot. “The National Guard manning the checkpoint really helps us maintain security. We need to honor people’s space. They've lost everything and by the Guard monitoring this environment, they can at least feel safe and secure."

The Red Cross depends on financial donations to provide relief services during disasters such as this historical flooding in North Dakota. Those who want to help people can make a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Visit www.redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS; people can also text the word “REDCROSS” to 90999 to make a $10 donation. Contributions may also be sent to local American Red Cross chapters or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.

15-Jul-11 1:00 PM

American Red Cross Expert’s Advise on Staying Cool in Record-breaking Heat

Melissa Rangel - noemail@houstonredcross.org — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 17:00:00 GMT

In recent years, excessive heat has caused more deaths than all other weather events, including floods. As temperatures and humidity levels soar in many parts of the country, protecting yourself and others from overheating is critical to avoid a potential heat-related illness. Here are some easy tips for staying safe during heat waves, courtesy of Dr. David Markenson, chair, American Red Cross Scientific Advisory Council.

· Never leave a child or pet in a parked car – even for a few minutes. The inside temperature of a car can quickly reach 120 degrees.

· Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day – even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol that dehydrate the body.

· Dress for the heat. Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing in layers. Avoid dark colors that absorb the sun’s rays.

· If you must work outdoors, take frequent breaks to hydrate and cool yourself. Avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.

· Protect your self from sun exposure even on cloudy or hazy days. In addition to dressing for heat, apply a broad-spectrum (protection against both UVA and UVB rays) sunscreen and reapply as indicated, wear eye protection (wraparound sunglasses that provide 100 percent UV ray protection) and wear a wide-brimmed hat.

· Be a good neighbor. Check in on the elderly, young children and pets to make sure they are not suffering from the heat.

Additional heat safety tips are available on redcross.org. Learn how to prevent and treat heat-related illnesses by attending a Red Cross First Aid course. Contact your Houston Red Cross Chapter or visit redcross.org/training for details or to register.

13-Jul-11 12:00 PM

Red Cross-funded shelters help displaced Haitians return to their neighborhoods

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 19:00:00 GMT

Friday, July 08, 2011 — Marie-Claudette Brutus beamed as she showed visitors her new home. The wood-sided, semi-permanent structure with a metal roof is nestled among a grove of palm and banana trees on the outskirts of Leogane, a city at the epicenter of last year’s devastating earthquake in Haiti. The house is neatly decorated with pink curtains, and big cooking pots hang from the walls. A cluster of stuffed animals belongs to the youngest of her four children.

Thanks to Red Cross support, thousands of Haitian families are living in new homes.

Photo credit: Allison Shelley, American Red Cross

“I love it,” Marie-Claudette said of her new home, which was built by Habitat for Humanity with funding from the American Red Cross. She is especially grateful to be back in her former neighborhood, surrounded by extended family – she has 12 siblings in the area – and the warmth of community.

Thanks to financial support from the American Red Cross, thousands of families across Haiti have made similar transitions from makeshift camps into safer and sturdy new homes in their former neighborhoods.

As of June 30th, 2,655 semi-permanent homes – enough for more than 13,000 people – had been built by partner organizations with American Red Cross funding. Having allocated $28 million for semi-permanent shelters, including water and sanitation services, the American Red Cross plans to fund construction of 6,500 homes by the end of the year.

In addition to Habitat for Humanity, other American Red Cross partners building semi-permanent shelters in Haiti include UNOPS, Haven, Handicap International, and ACTED.

Marie-Claudette, who is 31 years old, said her new home is a vast improvement over the tent her family lived in for months after their former house was destroyed in the earthquake.

“I feel more secure here,” she said. “We used to get wet every day” in the tent. “When it rained it was very hard for us, but we had nowhere else to go. It’s much more comfortable to sleep here.”

The global Red Cross network, which aims to help 30,000 Haitian families transition to safer, more secure homes, has already completed more than 10,000 semi-permanent homes, including those funded by the American Red Cross.

8-Jul-11 2:00 PM