News Release
Congressman Bob Etheridge
North Carolina

August 16, 2004

                                       Contact: Sara Lang
                                       Phone: (202) 225-4531

Etheridge, Red Cross Help North Carolinians Prepare for Hurricanes, Disasters

RALEIGH -- Just days after North Carolina faced Hurricane Charley, U.S. Rep. Bob Etheridge (D-Lillington) and Red Cross officials today reminded North Carolinians how to be prepared for hurricanes, potential terrorist attacks and all disasters. With disaster vehicles in the background, Etheridge and Red Cross representatives detailed practical, common-sense steps that families can take to be prepared, such as creating a disaster plan and assembling a disaster kit.

"With our state buffeted by hurricanes and terror alerts rising, North Carolinians can not let down their guard," Etheridge said. "Our state has faced more than its share of natural disasters - from Fran and Floyd to Bonnie and Charley. Since the tragic events of September 11th, Americans understand that a disaster can happen anywhere, at any time. However, recent surveys have shown that too many Americans don't know what to do to prepare for a disaster. No one knows where terrorists may strike next, or where the next hurricane will hit, but it is important that we take a few simple steps to prepare ourselves and our families for a disaster."

A recent survey conducted for the American Red Cross showed that the public understands that preparedness for disasters and homeland security is important, but many have difficulty finding out exactly how to prepare. The survey showed that 67 percent of Americans said it was very important to take steps to prepare for a disaster. However, only about 20 percent of Americans feel "very prepared" for a disaster. The survey can be found on Etheridge's website at http://www.house.gov/etheridge/RedCrossPreparedness.pdf.

The Red Cross recommends three steps crucial for disaster preparedness:
1. Develop a family disaster plan: Pick meeting places, establish a family emergency contact and discuss what to do in an evacuation.
2. Assemble a disaster supplies kit: Include water, a three-day supply of non-perishable food, a first aid kit and other tools and supplies.
3. Learn emergency skills: Take Red Cross or other courses in basic first aid and CPR.

"It is the goal of the American Red Cross to help every citizen in the state of North Carolina, prepare their homes, their families, their schools, their workplace and their community and to teach them how to respond to any situation be it natural or manmade," stated, Jane Gilbert, executive director of the Mid Atlantic Service Area.

More information on disaster preparedness can be found on the Red Cross website at www.redcross.org and on Etheridge's website at www.house.gov/etheridge/Homeland.htm.

The American Red Cross is a nationwide network of nearly 900 field units dedicated to saving lives and helping people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. This spring Raleigh became home to the headquarters of the Red Cross Mid Atlantic Service Area.

   
   
   
   

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