Even before a hurricane threatens, the American Red Cross, South Florida Region, is working behind the scenes to make sure people don’t have to face the worst alone.

“At the Red Cross, we never stop preparing for disasters because we know they can happen anytime, anywhere,” said Krista Coletti, Regional Executive for the American Red Cross South Florida Region. "It's critical that people make their preparations too. Large disasters are occurring almost continuously, and it only takes one to change someone’s life forever.”

To prepare for hurricanes, the Red Cross focuses on coordinating response plans and readying both volunteers and supplies. For example, the Red Cross coordinates closely with government officials and community partners to make sure people will have access to safe shelter, food and water, and critical relief supplies when needed. We’re also actively recruiting and training volunteers who will be ready to step up and help their neighbors. And finally, we’re checking that our local response vehicles and warehouses are stocked and ready to go if needed.

TAKE THESE STEPS TO GET READY

Just as we’re preparing, the Red Cross is urging families to get ready now by making a plan to stay

safe and knowing how you’ll stay connected. Plan to evacuate and to shelter safely at home. The evacuation plan should include knowing where to go, how to get there, and where to stay. The stay-at-home plan should focus on gathering the right supplies to live safely without power, water, gas, phone or internet for several days.

Sign up for free local government emergency alerts, which will include important information such as evacuation orders in an emergency. Download the free Red Cross Emergency app for real-time weather alerts, open shelter locations and expert advice in both English and Spanish.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

People look to the Red Cross for assistance every day and our volunteers help and support them on what often is one of their worst days. Because the Red Cross is operating in a state of continuous disaster response, there is an urgent need for new volunteers. Visit redcross.org/volunteer to learn more and sign up for free online training today.

There is a critical need for these key positions:

·       Disaster Action Team (DAT): Help families in your community after disasters. DAT team members provide emotional support, emergency financial assistance, and information to help families begin to recover.

·       Shelter Volunteers: Ensure needs of shelter residents are met and help them access additional services.

·       Disaster Health/Mental Health Services: Use your professional skills as a licensed health care provider to help meet people’s immediate needs in emergency shelters and refer them for ongoing, specialized care.

Like the people we serve, the Red Cross is proud that our volunteers represent a wide array of cultures, backgrounds, ages, gender identities, lifestyles and beliefs. Everyone is welcome. Join us today.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides comfort to victims of disasters, supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood, and offers training in life-saving skills. As a nonprofit organization, the Red Cross depends on volunteers and donations to deliver its vital mission. For more information, visit redcross.org/southflorida