SAN DIEGO - July 8, 2013 – In response to the Chariot Fire evacuations, American Red Cross disaster workers have transitioned the Temporary Evacuation Point into an overnight shelter at Joan MacQueen Middle School, located at 2001 Tavern Road, Alpine.
The shelter is providing immediate needs of those affected, including a safe place to stay, food and clothing, emotional support and health services. The shelter will remain open until all residents can be relocated or return to their homes.
The San Diego/Imperial Counties Chapter of the American Red Cross is dedicated to assisting those affected by disasters. Trained Red Cross volunteers and staff are on call round-the-clock and are ready to assist in various aspects including disaster assessment, casework, shelter, feeding and more. The local chapter responds to a disaster every 24 hours.
IF A WILDFIRE THREATENS
Wildfires can spread quickly, igniting brush, trees and homes. The Red Cross has important steps people to follow that can lessen the threat of a wildfire. If a wildfire is burning near your neighborhood, 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. These steps will help limit your exposure to smoke:
More information about how to prepare should a wildfire threaten your community is available on the Red Cross web sites – www.preparesandiego.org or www.redcross.org/sandiego.
About the American Red Cross, San Diego/Imperial Counties Chapter
The American Red Cross is not a government agency and relies on the generosity of the American people to provide our programs and services. The San Diego/Imperial Counties Chapter is the most trusted community service organization in education, preparation and response to natural disasters and human emergencies. With the public’s ongoing support we provide lifesaving preparedness training; disaster relief services; 24-hour emergency services to deployed military personnel and their families; and nutritional counseling through our Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program. For more information about or to support the chapter please contact (858) 309-1200 or visit www.redcross.org/sandiego. Please also connect with us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.