Preparing for Disaster Behind the Scenes An integral part of the Red Cross Disaster Service's mission is to prepare for disasters before they occur. A disaster response plan identifies what resources will be needed for specific disasters and how those resources should be coordinated and used. Every Red Cross chapter works continuously to coordinate and collaborate with its disaster partners. Chapters identify places to set up shelters and service centers, make arrangements with vendors for needed supplies, and work with local merchants. As part of the planning process, Red Cross chapters participate in drills and exercises that enable chapters to respond more efficiently and effectively. Each year the Red Cross also trains thousands of people who can then provide consistent, quality services to people affected by disasters. When a disaster strikes, dedicated paid and volunteer staffs in over 1,300 communities respond to the immediate needs of their neighbors. These trained disaster workers come from all walks of life and all segments of the community, including youth and young adults. They offer their skills and bring their life experiences to help when needed. They provide services to those affected to help them return to independent living as soon as possible. When a disaster exceeds the resources of the local Red Cross unit, the nationwide network is activated. Material resources--supplies, vehicles, communications equipment, etc.--are strategically located around the United States, its territories and possessions, and are ready to move into a disaster-affected area at a moment's notice. For information on how you can prepare for a disaster, please visit the Be Prepared section of our site.     Behind the Scenes Preparing for Disaster Much of the work to assist people after a disaster occurs behind the scenes. All of it is involved in one way or another in activities that assure the delivery of quality and timely services to those affected. Disaster Action Teams The Disaster Action Team is a team made up of the first Red Cross workers sent to the scene to immediately determine the needs of the people affected and take the lead in making arrangements for shelters and feeding. Damage Assessment Teams Damage Assessment Teams go into the disaster affected area to determine the amount and type of damage to homes, apartments and mobile homes. This information helps the Red Cross determine the assistance needed and the resources required to deliver service. Many other workers provide support to the Red Cross relief operation and ensure things run smoothly--they run warehouses, work on computers, do the accounting, handle logistics, facilitate communications, and many other activities. As a result of their efforts, services can be delivered in a timely and efficient way. Additional Red Cross workers serve as a link between the Red Cross relief operation and the affected community, other voluntary agencies, government, labor unions, businesses, community groups, and the media. This ensures that efforts are coordinated, resources shared, and ultimately the community is served efficiently and effectively.