Ninety dedicated Red Cross volunteers spent Sat., Aug. 21, ensuring that the Red Cross is ready to help disaster evacuees at a moment’s notice when the next wildfire or disaster happens here.
The volunteers, including members of two Red Cross youth clubs, washed 100 cots, took inventory of supplies in eight shelter trailers, installed seven battery kill switches in vehicles (to prevent dead batteries), and created shelter administration kits that will help Red Cross volunteers open disaster shelters for evacuees.
The chapter maintains Disaster Action Teams and supplies on standby at each of its district offices so when the call comes from emergency officials to establish a shelter, it is as simple as hitching a trailer and getting on the road to provide an immediate response. A shelter trailer contains all of the supplies needed to open a Red Cross shelter, including cots, blankets, administrative supplies, toys for children, and comfort kits. All volunteers were treated to lunch, which was prepared by Mass Care disaster volunteers. Learn how to help your community by becoming a disaster volunteer.
Video: Shelter Trailer Work Party (Third Annual Fun in the Sun)
Photos and video by Bob Carey, Communication & Marketing Volunteer
