American Red Cross Family Alert
August 31, 2005, Worcester, MA - As relief efforts continue, The American Red Cross is receiving hundreds of calls inquiring about the well-being of loved ones in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. We know thousands of Americans are worried about their loved ones in the aftermath of devastating Hurricane Katrina. With widespread power and communications outages and roads under water, it's important to go back to communication basics to ensure that you know that your family is safe.
- Rest assured that emergency responders are working as quickly as possible and are doing all that they can to help those affected.
- Remember that storms mean power outages and downed phone lines. Please keep trying and be patient.
- Phone lines are often overwhelmed after a disaster. Try sending an email if you can-sometimes email works when phones don't.
- Attempt to place calls after off-peak hours, after 10:00 p.m. and throughout the night.
- Think of friends or relatives the sought person may have called first and try to reach them.
The American Red Cross has mobilized thousands of volunteers to assist with the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. We are sheltering thousands and providing care and comfort to those affected. The Red Cross encounters the same problems with communication as the general public. We heed all directions from public officials, and do not enter areas until they are deemed safe.
"The Red Cross does not have information on the well being of any individuals," stated Nicole Valentine, spokesperson for the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts. "Our phone lines are being overwhelmed with calls, and we appreciate the desire to know how people fared during the storm. Medical and government officials will contact families in serious cases if necessary. The best way to help the Red Cross assist those affected by the storm is to remain patient and help us keep our phone lines open for emergencies only."
As soon as phones and the Internet are up and running are up and working, American Red Cross workers within the disaster area will be urging those individuals within the area to notify their loved ones.
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