Massive Relief Response Continues to Help Sandy’s Victims
Washington - The American Red Cross urges anyone who may be in the path of the Nor’Easter headed up the coast to get ready for the storm now.
Weather experts predict this new storm will bring heavy rain, strong winds and snow Wednesday and Thursday to the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast, along with cold temperatures and the possibility of new power outages. Many areas already affected by Superstorm Sandy could be impacted by this new storm.
ADVICE FOR PEOPLE AFFECTED BY SANDY The Red Cross has sent thousands of blankets and hand warmers to New York and New Jersey, and will be supporting some warming centers in the area. Those who need a safe place to go during the new storm are encouraged to come to a Red Cross shelter. In New York City, people can call 3-1-1 or visit www.nyc.gov for a list of both day and night-time warming centers. It’s important for people to check on their neighbors, share what they have and take care of each other as this new storm approaches.
FLOODING Areas already devastated along the coast could see new flooding from storm surges brought on by the Nor’easter. People should take the following steps if threatened by flooding:
GENERAL SAFETY INFORMATION This new storm could cause additional power outages, especially in areas where trees are already weakened by Sandy. If possible, people who may be in the Nor’easter’s path should fill their gas tanks now and get extra cash to keep on hand because if the power goes out, gas stations can’t pump gas and ATMs won’t work.
Other steps to take before the storm arrives are:
COLD WEATHER Temperatures are expected to drop as the storm moves up the coast. People should take the following steps:
POWER OUTAGE If the power goes out, people should:
USING A GENERATOR If someone is planning to use a generator, never use it indoors, including in a garage, carport, basement, crawlspace or other area, even with ventilation. Generators put off carbon monoxide fumes, which can be deadly. Full details are available at the link above.
RELIEF RESPONSE The Red Cross has mobilized the full resources of the organization to help people affected by Sandy. The entire fleet of response vehicles is activated and more than 5,400 disaster workers are supporting shelters, providing people with food and water and driving through neighborhoods to hand out food and supplies. To date, the Red Cross has served more than 1.6 million meals and snacks, provided more than 57,200 overnight stays, distributed more than 91,600 relief items and provided more than 23,900 health services and emotional support contacts.
The response to Sandy is likely to be the biggest Red Cross response in the U.S. in the past five years.
To help, visit www.redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. People can also use the “donate” feature on the free Red Cross Apps to support the Red Cross relief response.
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