|
Red Cross Opens Shelters for Northwest Flood Victims
Thursday, January 08, 2009 — Washington State residents had already seen records broken this winter with heavy snowfalls, and now they are dealing with flooding, mudslides and the threat of avalanches. Excessive runoff from all the rain and melting snow has closed roads and caused thousands of people to evacuate.
Nearly 200 people stayed in 24 Red Cross shelters on Wednesday night, giving them a safe place to go until flood waters recede and they can return home.
For those living in an area that is receiving heavy rainfall or is prone to flooding, keep these pointers in mind:
- If a flood or flash flood WATCH is issued, move your furniture and valuables to higher floors of your home. Fill your car's gas tank so you're prepared if an evacuation notice is issued. Be alert to signs of flash flooding and be ready to evacuate on a moment's notice.
- If a flood or flash flood WARNING is issued, listen to local radio and TV stations for information and advice. If told to evacuate, do so as soon as possible.
- If you think flooding has already started, evacuate immediately. You may have only seconds to escape. Move to higher ground away from rivers, streams, creeks and storm drains. Do not drive around barricades; they are there for your safety.
Remember that water is one of the most powerful forces of nature-a mere six inches of fast-moving flood water can knock down an adult. Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles.
If you want to help those affected by the Northwest floods and other disasters, you can make a donation to the Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund, which provides shelter, food, counseling and other assistance to victims of disaster. Go to www.redcross.org and help make a difference today.
To read more about Red Cross disaster response, visit the Disaster Online Newsroom.
About the American Red Cross:
All American Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from the American people. You can help the victims of thousands of disasters across the country each year, disasters like the hurricanes of 2008, by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund, which enables the Red Cross to provide shelter, food, counseling and other assistance to victims of disaster. The American Red Cross honors donor intent. If you wish to designate your donation to a specific disaster please do so at the time of your donation. Call 1-800-REDCROSS (1-800-733-2767) or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish). Contributions to the Disaster Relief Fund may be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, D.C., 20013. Internet users can make a secure online contribution by visiting www.redcross.org.
|
|
 |
|
|
