The American Red Cross Urges Safety in States Affected b...( As some residents in Central U.S....),Health

As some residents in Central U.S. recover, others are preparing for

potential flooding

WASHINGTON, June 21 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The American Red Cross forges on with relief efforts as hundreds of thousands of residents in states across the Midwest continue to feel the effects of recent flooding, as some are allowed to return to damaged homes and many others remain in shelters. Along the Mississippi River, residents in Missouri and Illinois brace themselves as the river surpasses record flood levels and continues to break or compromise levees.

More than 4,000 Red Cross disaster workers are aiding relief efforts in eight states from Kansas to West Virginia. In preparation for potential flood conditions along the Missouri-Illinois border, 19 shelters are operating and thousands of meals and snacks have been provided.

In areas where flooding is likely to occur soon, it is crucial for residents to take action to get better prepared and be "Red Cross Ready": Get a Kit, Make a Plan, Be Informed.

Get a Kit: Gather supplies including 3 days worth of food and water, a first aid kit, battery-operated radio, batteries, flashlight, medicine, cash and other important items into a sealable, easy to carry container. For a full list of suggested items, visit http://www.RedCross.org.

Make a Plan: Choose an out-of-the-area emergency contact to check in with. Tell your family about the Safe and Well website on http://www.RedCross.org where you can register your well being. Plan ahead to find a hotel or motel where your pets could stay in a disaster situation.

Be Informed: Find out how local authorities will contact you in an emergency. If a flood WATCH is issued, listen to local weather reports on your batter-operated radio. Follow the advice of local authorities and if you are asked to evacuate, do
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