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.
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.
Disaster Action Team Volunteers are on call 24 hours a day. Emergence Assistance to disaster victims is based on individual need and includes: food, clothings, shelter, essential household furnishings, medical and nursing needs, and occupational supplies. All disaster assistance is free, with no repayment expected or accepted.
Callaway County Red Cross
211 5th Street
Fulton, MO 65251
ccarc@sbcglobal.net
