Hundreds have stayed in Red Cross shelters, received relief supplies and meals

FRIDAY, AUGUST 14, 2020 | PHILADELPHIA, PA — It’s been ten days since Tropical Storm Isaias tracked through the region, causing widespread flash flooding. Additional rounds of thunderstorms in the days since have only added to the problems.

This week, the Red Cross has had more than 100 disaster workers providing care and comfort to those affected by the flooding. They have been helping in shelters, serving meals and snacks, distributing clean-up kits and other emergency relief supplies and providing health services in shelters. In addition, teams are continuing to assess damage, and the Red Cross uses that information to provide personalized recovery plans to those impacted by Isaias.

Here is a look at some of the service numbers provided by the Red Cross through Thursday night:

• More than 350 people have stayed in Red Cross shelters, accumulating nearly 3,000 overnight stays
• More than 3,500 meals and snacks have been served by the Red Cross and its partners
• More than 1,800 emergency relief supplies have been distributed
• More than 1,100 health checks have been made supporting COVID-19 safety
• More than 650 residents affected by flooding are receiving recovery support
• More than 100 Red Cross disaster workers from all over the Northeast are here helping

As many residents return home from Red Cross shelters this weekend, the Red Cross has the following safety tips when cleaning up after the flood:

FLOOD SAFETY TIPS 

• If any gas or electrical appliances were flooded, don’t use them until they have been checked for safety.
• Dispose of any food that has come into contact with flood water.
• Take pictures of home damage, both of the buildings and its contents, for insurance purposes.
• Wear protective clothing, including rubber gloves and rubber boots, and be cautious when cleaning up.
• Be careful when moving furnishings or debris, because they may be waterlogged and heavier.
• Throw out items that absorb water and cannot be cleaned or disinfected. This includes mattresses, carpeting, cosmetics, stuffed animals and baby toys.
• Throw out all food, beverages and medicine exposed to flood waters and mud. When in doubt, throw it out. This includes canned goods, plastic utensils, baby bottle nipples and containers with food or liquid that has been sealed shut.

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/philly or follow us on social media at @RedCrossPhilly.

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