ST. LOUIS – The American Red Cross remains on the ground in Southeast Missouri, providing support to communities affected by flooding. Current response efforts are focused on assisting first responders and distributing emergency supplies to residents in impacted areas.
Over the weekend, Red Cross teams distributed more than 130 disaster relief and cleanup kits throughout the community. Distribution efforts are continuing today to help residents with immediate recovery needs.
As floodwater recedes and conditions become safe for volunteers to access affected areas, Red Cross teams are conducting damage assessments to evaluate the extent of the impact and identify additional community needs.
The Red Cross continues to coordinate closely with local officials, emergency management agencies, and community partners to assess conditions and determine what additional assistance may be needed as recovery efforts progress.
The American Red Cross closed its shelter located at the First Assembly of God Church in Centerville.
How to stay safe after a flood:
- Avoid fallen power lines, poles, and wires. They can electrocute you.
- Many injuries happen during cleanup. Wear protective equipment, like boots, long pants, work gloves, eyewear, and an N95 respirator to protect your lungs. Follow the advice of local public health officials.
- Learn how to use equipment safely. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water because you could get electrocuted.
- Stay away from floodwaters. They may contain sewage, sharp items, and chemicals that can make you ill.
If your home was flooded:
- If possible, dry your home and everything in it as quickly as you can within 24 to 48 hours.
- If you cannot return to dry your home within 24 to 48 hours, you should assume you have mold growth. When it is safe to return home, completely dry everything, clean up the mold and make sure you don’t still have a moisture problem.
- Keep wet areas well-ventilated. Throw away wet materials that can’t be repaired or dried.
- Watch out for snakes, insects or other animals that may be in or around your home.
How people can help:
For individuals wishing to assist the Red Cross in responding to community disasters, a financial donation is best. This allows the Red Cross to be flexible in using the funds to directly address the needs of those affected.
To donate, call 1-800 RED CROSS or donate online at www.redcross.org.
Volunteers are also needed to respond to disasters and support many other aspects of the Red Cross mission. To volunteer to assist the Red Cross in responding to disasters, go to RedCross.org/volunteer.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.