Media Contact: Jerrica Williams

ATLANTA, GA (September 27, 2022) — As Hurricane Ian makes its way toward Florida, the American Red Cross of Georgia is preparing in advance for possible impacts in our area. The Red Cross urges families to be prepared, safe, and informed.  

“Our teams are coordinating closely with partners, reviewing our response plans, and communicating with our volunteers to be ready to provide aid, as needed,” said Dee Dixon, Regional Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross of Georgia. “And we urge our neighbors to monitor the storm closely and take the time to prepare.”  

The Red Cross is working with local emergency management and elected officials to establish shelter sites along the Georgia/Florida border and the Georgia coast. The timing of shelter openings will be in alignment with local government for consistent communication to those seeking shelter.

See the preparedness tips and resources below: 

• Create an evacuation plan. Plan what to do in case you are separated from your family during an emergency and if you have to evacuate.  
• Build an emergency kit with a gallon of water per person, per day, non-perishable food, a flashlight, battery-powered radio, a first aid kit, medications, supplies for infants or pets, a multi-purpose tool, personal hygiene items, copies of important papers, cell phone chargers, extra cash, blankets, maps of the and emergency contact information. 
• Be informed. Find out how local officials will contact you during a disaster and how you will get important information, such as evacuation orders. 
• Download the free Red Cross Emergency app to help keep you and your loved ones safe with real-time alerts, open Red Cross shelter locations, and safety advice on hurricanes and other emergencies. 
• Download the free Red Cross Emergency App for real-time weather alerts, open shelters, and expert advice on emergency situations. Search “American Red Cross” in app stores or go to redcross.org/apps. You can also enable the Red Cross Hurricane Alert skill on Amazon Alexa-enabled devices to receive warnings about an approaching hurricane and preparedness information. 
   

For more preparedness resources click here. Tips are also available in Spanish. 

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.