Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (Aug. 28, 2023) — Recent devastating wildfires in Maui and flooding from Hurricane Hilary serve as stark reminders of the urgent need for families and communities to be prepared for disasters and emergencies. As September marks National Preparedness Month, the American Red Cross of Southern Nevada is urging everyone to create an emergency plan for their family and consider volunteering to help others.
Severe weather events continue to escalate across the nation, with the American Red Cross responding to nearly double the number of large-scale disasters compared to a decade ago. "As we witness the increasing impact of these disasters every year, we are grateful for the community's generosity and partnership in expanding our capacity and services to help those in great need," said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross, Southern Nevada Chapter.
For National Preparedness Month, the Red Cross of Southern Nevada encourages everyone to take three lifesaving actions: get a kit, make a plan and stay informed. Access essential safety tips now at redcross.org/prepare.
Take these three crucial steps to prepare:
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 disasters. It is compatible with smartphones, Apple Watch and Android wearable devices. Search "American Red Cross" in app stores or visit redcross.org/apps
Volunteer now to help during the mounting U.S. disaster responses
In the first half of 2023 there have been 15 confirmed weather/climate disaster events with losses exceeding $1 billion each in the U.S. From 1980 to 2022, the average number of major disasters each year in the U.S. was 8. "Our volunteers work tirelessly to provide aid to those in need. We need more trained disaster volunteers to support disaster response efforts across the country and here in our local community," said Flanigan.
Every day, individuals and families in our community rely on Red Cross volunteers for assistance. Volunteers help people affected by disasters, donate blood, teach lifesaving skills and support active-duty military personnel, veterans and their families. Discover the volunteer role that suits you best at redcross.org/volunteer.
Adapting to the climate crisis
As extreme weather disasters continue to increase, the Red Cross is taking bold and thoughtful actions to adapt its services and expand its capacity by:
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.