American Red Cross Disaster Newsroom

American Red Cross Opens Shelter, Provides Comfort for Flood Victims

Red Cross Provides Tips to Stay Safe

Fargo, ND,  April 12, 2009 – The American Red Cross is on the scene in Valley City, ND to help those affected by the flood. An emergency shelter is open at the Eagles Club, 345 12th Avenue NE, Valley City, to help residents impacted by the flood by offering a safe place to stay, a hot meal, minor first aid, and a shoulder to lean on.

“In the days and weeks to come, the Red Cross will be coordinating with emergency officials and local community partners to help residents impacted by the flood get back on their feet,” said Sherri Thomsen, Regional Executive Director. “The Red Cross will keep shelters open as long as needed, in addition to providing mobile feeding and mental health support to those affected by the flood.”
Be proactive and prepare the following items to take with you should the time come:

• any medicines or other medical supplies needed by members of the family
• feeding formulas for infants or special food for those with specific dietary requirements
• a pillow, blanket or other comfort items for each member of the family
• a change of clothing
• a few non-perishable snacks and water
• flashlights, a battery-powered radio, and extra batteries for both
• books and simple toys for your children
• important documents
• emergency arrangements for your pets

Listen to area radio and television stations or a NOAA Weather Radio for evacuation announcements that apply to your area. If you are told to evacuate, be ready to act immediately. If you come upon a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. Make every attempt to evacuate during daylight hours. Remember: listen to local authorities and do what they ask you to do.

If you are asked to evacuate, and can make one call before you leave home, call someone you love and tell them you are safe. Then, ask them to register you on Safe and Well.

Register on the Red Cross Safe and Well Website at www.redcross.org.

• The Safe and Well Website allows those directly affected by a disaster to let their loved ones know of their well-being.
• For those that do not have internet access, call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to register yourself and your family. Follow the prompts for disaster information.
• Concerned family members who know the person’s phone number (home, cell or work) or a complete home address can search for the messages posted by those who self-register.