MARIPOSA – On Sunday, July 11, the Red Cross of the Central Valley opened a Resource Center at New Life Christian Fellowship (5089 Cole Rd, Mariposa, CA 95338) for evacuees affected by the River Fire in Mariposa and Madera counties. Red Cross volunteers continue to be on site providing safe shelter, meals, water and health services to evacuees impacted by this large wildfire. As of midnight, two evacuees were provided overnight shelter and Red Cross services.
It is critical that those in the path of wildfires listen to the advice of local authorities and evacuate immediately if asked to do so. As conditions evolve, we want to ensure anyone being impacted by wildfire knows this resource is available for all who need it. Everyone is welcome at Red Cross shelters and they are a safe place for people of all backgrounds. All disaster services are provided free of charge.
Evacuating residents are encouraged to bring the following for each member of their family: prescription and other emergency medication, extra clothing, pillows, blankets, hygiene supplies, important documents and other comfort items. Additionally, special items for children and infants, such as diapers, formulas and toys, should be brought along with other items for family members who may have other needs. If you have pets and need help with animal evacuation, please visit CCADT.org for instructions.
BE PREPARED TO EVACUATE AT A MOMENT’S NOTICE and obey all evacuation orders from officials. Be ready to leave quickly with your emergency kit. Be ready to leave if local authorities tell you to evacuate, or if you feel you are in danger.
- Shut all windows and doors. Remove flammable window shades, curtains and close metal shutters.
- Move flammable furniture to the center of the room, away from windows and doors.
- Shut off gas at the meter; turn off pilot lights. Shut off the air conditioning.
- Gather up flammable items from the exterior of the house and bring them inside (patio furniture, toys, trash cans).
- Turn off propane tanks. Move propane BBQ appliances away from structures.
- Don’t leave sprinklers on or water running, they can affect critical water pressure.
- Back your loaded car into the driveway and keep all doors and windows closed.
- Ensure your emergency supplies kit is in your vehicle.
- Locate your pets and take them with you.
- Never leave children or pets in your vehicle.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of non-caffeine and non-alcoholic fluids.
- Check on family, friends and neighbors without air conditioning, who are alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.
- If you don’t have air conditioning, seek relief from the heat in places like schools, libraries, theaters, malls, etc.
- Avoid extreme temperature changes.
- Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
- Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.
- Postpone outdoor activities.
- Take frequent breaks if working outdoors.
- Check on animals frequently. Make sure they have plenty of cool water and shade.
Download the Red Cross Emergency App
In addition to the free Red Cross app “Emergency”, the Red Cross First Aid app gives you instant access to information on handling common first aid scenarios, including heat emergencies. Download for free here or search for ‘American Red Cross’ in your app store.
How You Can Help
Help people affected by disasters like home fires, wildfires and countless other crises by making a gift to American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small. Call, click, or text to give: visit redcross.org, call 1-800 RED CROSS or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. Become a trained Red Cross volunteer by signing up at redcross.org/volunteer.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org/centralcalifornia or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCrossCCR.
