You had to evacuate from a wildfire, what’s next? American Red Cross has this advice
American Red Cross has important advice if you find yourself without a place to live.
American Red Cross has important advice if you find yourself without a place to live.
American Red Cross has important advice if you find yourself without a place to live.
What if a fire burns through your area in Northern California and you find yourself without a place to live?
That’s where the American Red Cross comes in. Their shelters open up when you’re forced to evacuate and don’t have a place to go. They are equipped to provide all your basic needs.
Stephen Walsh with the American Red Cross recommends making a list of everyday items you’ll want. That includes medicine, a cellphone charger, and even comfort items for a pet or children in your go bag.
"We want people to think ahead about 'what do I need to take with me so that I’m comfortable and cared for once we get to a shelter or somewhere safe,'” Walsh told KCRA 3.
He recommended bringing toys for a child to occupy them.
“Sometimes you're in a shelter for several days and it can get a little monotonous and boring for kids," he said.
He also said to think about things for your pet like a chew toy.
Days spent in the shelter can add up. If you lose your home, it can take a while to figure out where to go next.
“When you're in a Red Cross shelter we have trained volunteers that will be working with you every single day to basically assess your needs and assess your options on where you can go,” Walsh said.
Volunteers are keeping shelters staffed and open for around 100 days during peak wildfire season each year.
If you want to donate to the Red Cross, click here.
This story was produced as part of KCRA 3's latest "Wildfire Ready" special. Watch the full report here.