Red Cross prepares for response to impacts of Tropical Storm Fred

CHARLOTTE — The remnants of Tropical Storm Fred are expected to bring heavy rains to the Greater Carolinas Region in the coming days, and the American Red Cross is ready to respond should the storm impact our region. In addition to heavy rainfall, potential threats include flash flooding and mudslides.

“As we move into the peak of hurricane season, the Red Cross is urging families to ensure they get ready now for emergencies,” said Allison Taylor, regional executive. “We work year-round to provide comfort and support to anyone who needs help after a disaster. Our dedicated volunteers are standing by to support our communities during challenging times.”

RED CROSS AT THE READY With hurricane season off to a highly active and early start, the Red Cross is prepared to ensure help is available to anyone who needs it after a disaster. These efforts include coordination with local and state partners, staging relief supplies, including cots, blankets and cleaning supplies and maintaining volunteer readiness.

SAFE SHELTERING The priority of the Red Cross remains to open safe evacuation shelters for people facing emergencies. Appropriate precautions will remain in place to help reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19. In alignment with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shelter guidance and to ensure the safety of our workforce and those we serve, masks will be required in shelters for both shelter staff and residents, regardless of vaccination status.

PREPARE YOUR FAMILY NOW There are simple steps you can take to be prepared:

• Create an evacuation plan. Plan what to do if you are separated from your family during an emergency and if you have to evacuate. Coordinate your plan with your child’s school, your work, and your community’s emergency plans. Plan multiple routes to local shelters and make plans for pets. If you have an emergency plan, update it and review with family members so everyone knows what to do if an emergency occurs.
• Build an emergency kit with a gallon of water per person, per day, non-perishable food, a flashlight, battery-powered radio, first aid kit, medications, supplies for an infant and pets if applicable, 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. Because of the pandemic, also include a mask for everyone in your household.
• Download the free Red Cross Emergency app to help keep you and your loved ones safe with real-time alerts, open Red Cross shelter locations, and safety advice for hurricanes and other emergencies.