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Disaster Services
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The Red Cross works in their communities to help the
public to prevent prepare for, and cope with
disasters. The Red Cross responds to disasters such
as hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, fires, and other
situations that cause human suffering, or create human
needs that those affected cannot alleviate without
assistance. The Red Cross provides free information
on disasters to help people plan for specific types of
disasters, reduce their impact, prevent injuries, save
lives, and reduce the loss of property.
All Red Cross assistance is given free of charge, made
possible by the generous contribution
of
people's time, money and skills.
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Planning for Action
Long before a disaster strikes, the Red Cross plans what
to do. A disaster response plan identifies what it
will take to respond to various disasters, what
resources are needed, and how they will be coordinated
and used. As part of the planning process, Red
Cross chapters also practice by participating in drills
and exercises. Such planning enables chapters to
respond efficiently and effectively.
Preparing to Respond
Every Red Cross chapter works continuously to be ready
to respond by coordinating and collaborating with its
disaster partners. As part of this process,
chapters identify places to set up shelters and
service centers, make arrangements with vendors for
needed supplies, and work with local merchants.
The ability to respond also depends on having people
who are trained and ready. Each year the Red
Cross trains thousands of people who can then provide
consistent, quality services to people affected by
disasters.
Responding to Disasters
When a disaster threatens or strikes, dedicated paid
and volunteer staff in over 1,300 communities around
the country respond to the immediate needs of their
neighbors. They provide services to
those affected to help them return to independent
living as soon as possible. When a disaster
exceeds the resources of the local Red Cross unit,
the nationwide network of people and material
resources is activated. This network of
trained disaster workers is comprised of people from
all walks of life and all segments of the community,
including youth and young adults. They offer
skills and bring life experiences to help when
needed. Material resources- supplies,
vehicles, communications equipment, etc, are
strategically located around the United States, its
territories and possessions, and are ready to move
into disaster affected areas at a moments
notice.
Public Safety
The Red Cross is involved in helping individuals
and families learn how to get ready, stay safe,
cope and recover from disasters through Community
Disaster Education.DISASTER
TRAINING
FOR OTHER SERVICES AND QUESTIONS PLEASE CALL
DURING REGULAR OFFICE HOURS: 8:00 AM TO 4:30
PM
CALL (319)
234-6831
Copyright
2000, The American Red Cross Hawkeye Chapter
All rights reserved.
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