American Red Cross Plans for Tropical Storm Ernesto

Preparedness urged as Ernesto heads towards the United States

WASHINGTON, Monday, August 28, 2006 — With new possibilities for Tropical Storm Ernesto to upgrade back into a hurricane and progress along the Eastern seaboard, the American Red Cross urges people to act now while there’s time to prepare. Ernesto is anticipated to make landfall in Florida in the coming days; later this week, there is the potential for northeastern communities to be impacted by severe, dangerous weather in the form of high winds, flash floods and more. For those in the entire state of Florida as well as individuals and families along the Eastern seaboard from Georgia to New England, these three simple steps can make all the difference in staying safe: get a kit, make a plan and stay informed.

“Individuals and families can never be too prepared. Although the hurricane has been downgraded by the National Hurricane Center to a tropical storm, communities in Ernesto’s path need to take action now to plan for a potentially dangerous landfall. There is the possibility that the storm will strengthen again – so continue to review your family communications plan and disaster supplies kit while you have the opportunity,” said Keith Robertory, disaster preparedness expert for the American Red Cross.

As always, the American Red Cross is there for communities across the country through our network of more than 800 chapters. These chapters are making plans now – reaching out to their community partners and mobilizing local resources in the event that severe weather from Ernesto arrives in their neighborhoods. Nationally, our pre-positioned supplies and strategically-located warehouses stand stocked and ready to assist in any Red Cross shelter openings or relief efforts. Because the storm’s path is still shifting, this is a good time for residents throughout the Gulf Coast region to help with preparations in their communities as well.

Take these actions now to help you and your loved ones get prepared:

Get a Kit

• Build a disaster supplies kit including water, non-perishable food, radio, flashlight and extra batteries for both, a first aid kit and necessary medications. Store important family documents (wills, passports, insurance policies, deeds, etc.) in a portable, waterproof and fireproof container as part of your kit.
• Prepare supplies for pets and family members with specific needs.

Make a Plan

• Make evacuation and communication plans.
• Plan ahead for the possibility of becoming separated from your family and friends by choosing an out-of-town contact that each family or household member can call or email should a disaster occur.
• Plan on using the Red Cross Safe and Well Web site, accessible through www.redcross.org.

Be Informed

• Talk to your family about the types of disasters that can happen in your community.
• Follow the directions of emergency officials.

For additional information on Ernesto’s path, please stay tuned to updated news and weather reports. For additional information on individual and community preparedness, log onto www.redcross.org/prepare or contact your local American Red Cross chapter today.