AMERICAN RED CROSS NEWS RELEASE – How did you celebrate July 4th? American Red Cross Volunteers Leon “Joe” Taylor and Paulette Bridges spent their holiday driving the Northern Nevada Red Cross Chapter’s Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV) to Prescott AZ. We commend Leon and Paulette as well as all the Red Cross volunteers who are sacrificing time with their families in order to serve the needs of others.
ERV vehicles are used on disaster relief operations to provide mobile or stationary feedings, distribution of items, and, as necessary, to do casework, communication, and to transfer supplies. ERV vehicles are also utilized to distribute food and other needed supplies to those impacted by disasters. The ERV also carries refreshments for firefighters as well.
A large wildfire erupted north of Phoenix, Az. burning thousands of acres and tragically taking the lives of 19 firefighters. The American Red Cross extends its deepest condolences to the families of these brave individuals who dedicated themselves to battling wildfires in order to save lives, homes and businesses.
The Grand Canyon Chapter of the Red Cross has opened two shelters in Arizona-in Prescott and Wickenburg-for those forced to evacuate because of the fire. Red Cross workers are providing food, water and mental health support to those at the shelters, as well as staffing the local Emergency Operation Center.
Dangerous, triple-digit temperatures and excessive heat warnings will continue in parts of the West, with thunderstorms and high winds potentially exacerbating the wildfire situation.
Meanwhile, a shelter is still open in Colorado due to the wildfires that broke out in that state weeks ago.
Go to redcross.org to learn how to prepare for all types of emergencies-including wildfires and floods. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer visit the Northern Nevada Red Cross website.
About the American Red Cross: The American Red Cross Northern Nevada chapter area covers 87,000 square miles with a population of more than 670,000 people. Our chapter territory is from Tonopah north, with our main chapter in Reno and branch offices in Elko, Incline Village and Winnemucca.
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross. . For more information about becoming a volunteer, health and safety classes, or making a donation, call 775-856-1000 or visit us at www.redcross.org/northernnevada.
