Red Cross Urges Storm, Flood Victims to Get Registered
As rising floodwaters continue to destroy homes and threaten communities across much of the Midwest and West Virginia, the American Red Cross urges affected residents to register themselves and their loved ones on its Safe and Well Web site.
In the past 24 hours, Red Cross says more than 31 individuals have registered, allowing family and friends around the country to know of their status. Once an individual registers on the Web site, loved ones across the country can search the site and read messages.
As residents of five states continue to feel the full impact of the recent tornadoes, severe storms, and flooding, Red Cross says registering on Safe and Well can bring great peace of mind to people trying to contact them.
"At the American Red Cross we want to make difficult situations like this a little bit easier by giving families and friends a resource to get this important information," said Joe Becker, senior vice president, Disaster Services. "Knowing that those we care about are safe is a relief that allows people to focus on what to do next."
To use the Web site, visit RedCross.org, and click on the "Safe and Well" link. If you are currently being affected by these disasters, click: "List Myself as Safe and Well," enter your pre-disaster address and phone number, and select any of the standard message options.
If a visitor is concerned about a loved one, click "Search" and enter the person's name and pre-disaster phone number or address. If they have registered, you will be able to view the messages that they posted.
If you don't have internet access, you can call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to register yourself and your family.