Severe weather events are part of a worsening national trend. The Red Cross has responded to nearly twice as many large disasters across the country as it did a decade ago. Furthermore, the climate crisis is taking a heavier toll on frontline communities, who are often left vulnerable.

“That’s why it’s critical to not only prepare yourself for risks like severe storms, but to also help families in need – both in our region and in other parts of the country. Please join us by becoming a volunteer or making a financial donation to support our disaster relief efforts,” shared Mark Thomas, Interim CEO for the Illinois Red Cross.

Take steps now to be ready if a weather emergency threatens your community. Planning is the key.

GET A KIT

    • Three-day supply of non-perishable food and water—one gallon per person, per day for drinking and hygiene purposes
    • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
    • Flashlight and extra batteries
    • First aid kit, medications and medical items
    • Copies of important documents (proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
    • Extra cash

MAKE A PLAN

    • Talk with household members about what you would do during emergencies
    • Plan what to do in case you are separated, and choose two places to meet – one right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency such as a fire, and another outside your neighborhood in case you cannot return home or are asked to evacuate
    • Choose a contact person from out of the area and make sure all household members have this person’s phone number and email address – it may be easier to call long distance or text if local phone lines are overloaded or out of service
    • Tell everyone in the household where emergency information and supplies are kept
    • Practice evacuating your home twice a year – drive your planned evacuation route and plot alternate routes on a map in case main roads are impassable
    • If you must evacuate, make arrangements for your pets – keep a phone list of “pet-friendly” motels/hotels and animal shelters that are along your evacuation routes

BE INFORMED

    • Know the risks where you live, work, learn and play
    • Arm yourself with information about what to do in case an emergency occurs – emergencies like fires and blackouts can happen anywhere, so everyone should be prepared for them
    • Find out how you would receive information from local officials in the event of an emergency
    • Learn first aid, CPR and how to use an AED so you have the skills to respond in an emergency before help arrives, especially during a disaster when emergency responders may be delayed

You can find safety information for many types of emergencies at redcross.org or by downloading the free Red Cross Emergency App. Information is available on what to do before, during and after the storm or other emergency or click the links to find helpful safety tips for you and your family from the American Red Cross when thunderstorms, tornadoes, power outages and flooding are in the forecast for your area.

 

ps.