Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680

LAS VEGAS (Aug. 19, 2023) — As Hurricane Hilary heads toward Southern California and then Nevada, the American Red Cross of Southern Nevada is prepared with sheltering supplies in place throughout the area and volunteers on standby in case emergency shelters are needed.

Red Cross disaster workers are collaborating with local officials to coordinate response plans and are ready to open shelters if necessary. Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross, Southern Nevada Chapter, stated, "We are in constant contact with emergency managers to ensure that we are prepared to shelter people displaced by the storm. Our disaster staff and volunteers have been diligently preparing and have positioned shelter supplies for immediate deployment."

The Red Cross has positioned trailers stocked with shelter supplies, including cots, blankets, pillows, water and snacks, for faster response if a shelter needs to be opened throughout the area including Pahrump and Moapa.

Although Hurricane Hilary has been downgraded to a Category 2 storm by the U.S. National Hurricane Center, Clark and Nye Counties are under a flood watch until Monday, with rains expected throughout the weekend and early next week. It is crucial to prepare now, before the rains potentially cause flooding.

Flanigan emphasized the dangers of flash flooding, stating, "Everyone must understand that flash flooding is extremely dangerous, and even a small amount of water can knock you off your feet. In fact, only 6 inches of water can cause you to fall. And never drive through flooded streets. Most cars can be carried away by just 12 inches of rushing water."

Follow these three steps to prepare

1.  Create an evacuation plan: Plan what to do in case you are separated from your family during an emergency and establish a plan for evacuating. Ensure that your emergency plan includes provisions for your pets.
2. Build an emergency kit: Assemble an emergency kit with essential items such as a gallon of water per person per day, non-perishable food, a flashlight, a 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 area and emergency contact information.
   
3. Stay informed: Find out how local officials will contact you during a disaster and how you can receive important information, such as evacuation orders. Stay tuned to your local radio, NOAA radio, or news channel for the latest updates.
   

To stay prepared for the unexpected, residents are encouraged to download the free Red Cross Emergency App. The app provides real-time weather alerts, information on open Red Cross shelters, and expert advice on floods. It is compatible with smartphones, Apple Watch and Android wearable devices. Search "American Red Cross" in app stores or visit redcross.org/apps.

Flooding Safety Tips:
It is crucial to heed the advice of local authorities and evacuate immediately if instructed to do so. Safety should be the top priority. Differentiate between a watch and a warning, where a watch indicates likely conditions and staying alert is advised, while a warning requires immediate action.

Here are some additional safety tips for dealing with flooding:

• Turn around, don't drown: Avoid driving on flooded roads. If you encounter a flooded roadway, turn around and find an alternative route.
• Follow evacuation routes: Do not attempt shortcuts, as they may be blocked.
• Stay away from floodwaters: Be cautious of snakes, insects, and other animals that may be present near floodwaters and your home.
• Keep children and pets away from hazardous areas and floodwaters.
• Avoid using potentially contaminated water for cooking, drinking, or personal hygiene.
• Offer assistance to those in need, especially individuals with special needs, older adults, those without transportation, large families and people with disabilities.
• Report downed power lines to the utility company and refrain from stepping in puddles or standing water near them.
• If any gas or electrical appliances were flooded, do not use them until they have been inspected for safety.
• Dispose of any food that has come into contact with floodwater.
• Take photos of home damage, including both the buildings and contents, for insurance purposes.

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; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.