While along the Texas Gulf Coast we mostly talk about hurricanes, the realities of the tornadoes that have struck Oklahoma on Monday, and struck North Texas last week, remind us of the power of these storms as well.
Red Cross volunteers in Oklahoma are responding already. And volunteers from around the region and nation are being mobilized immediately in order to assist in the recovery. In the coming hours and days we’ll pass along more about what we know via Twitter and through posts, but in the interim we want to ask you to do two things.
1. Consider Donating to the Recovery via The American Red Cross
By following visiting this link to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief website you can direct funds to assist in the response for Oklahoma City. Or you can even donate $10 directly by texting “Red Cross” to 90999
2. Download the Red Cross Tornado App
Prepare yourself in the event that one of these storms ever comes into our area by downloading the free smartphone app designed by the Red Cross. The new American Red Cross Tornado App puts help right into the hands of people who live in or visit tornado-prone areas. Best of all, it’s free and available for iPhone, iPad and Android smart phone and tablet users.The Red Cross app gives people instant access to local and real time information on what to do before, during and after tornados whether it’s in the community where they live or where they love to vacation.
The app, available in English and Spanish, has a number of features including a high-pitched siren and “tornado warning!” alert that signals when a NOAA tornado warning is in effect. An “all clear!” alert lets users know when a tornado warning has expired or has been cancelled. People who are out of harm’s way can quickly tap the “I’m safe” button to send a message letting loved ones and friends know they are okay.
People across the country can now receive location-based NOAA tornado, severe thunderstorm and flood alerts on their mobile devices and share them on their social networks. Users can share vital information via Facebook, Twitter, text and email. Even if someone doesn’t live in a tornado-prone area, users can have peace of mind knowing they’ll have instant information about loved ones who live in other parts of the country.
Lastly, while apps can help prepare you for disasters and giving your money can help you feel involved, they are not a substitute for training. Red Cross First Aid and CPR/AED training empowers people to know how to respond to emergencies in case advanced medical help is delayed. Go to redcross.org/takeaclass for information and to register.
And if you want to become a Red Cross Disaster Volunteer contact the Houston Area Red Cross for information on how to help in the event of future disasters.