American Red Cross urges residents to prepare now for flooding and winter weather conditions

[December 28, 2015]  PEORIA - The American Red Cross is urging residents in Central and Southern Illinois to take steps now to prepare for the potential of flooding and winter weather conditions, which could include ice, snow and high winds.

“There is the potential for flooding and wintery conditions in a large portion of our region, so we are encouraging residents to closely monitor weather conditions and prepare now,” said Betsy Pratt, Red Cross Regional CEO. “Being prepared is the best way to keep your family safe. The Red Cross has preparedness tips on flooding, and winter storms including driving tips at redcross.org/prepare and we encourage everyone to review the information now.”

The Red Cross recommends that individuals and families prepare by downloading the Free Red Cross Emergency App.  This all-inclusive app provides expert advice on what to do in case of a number of different disasters including floods, winter storms and more. The free Emergency App is available in app stores for smartphones and tablets by searching for the American Red Cross or by going to redcross.org/apps.

Assemble an Emergency Preparedness Kit   Your emergency kit should include a three day supply of water and nonperishable food items, flashlights and extra batteries, medications, battery-powered or hand-crank weather radio, first aid kit, copies of personal documents, cell phones and chargers, family and emergency contact information, extra cash and pet supplies.

Monitor Weather Conditions.  Listen to your local radio and TV stations for updated weather information. Be prepared to evacuate your residence if a flood warning is issued for your immediate area. Consider canceling or postponing travel plans if road conditions deteriorate.

You can follow the American Red Cross of Central and Southern Illinois on Twitter at @RedCrossCSIL or call us at 309-677-7272 or 1-800-REDCROSS. We urge you to share these Red Cross preparedness tips with every member of your household, because the best protection is to be prepared ahead of time.

About the American Red Cross:

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

[Trish Burnett, Regional Communications Director, American Red Cross]