The Oklahoma Red Cross says they have deployed to help those that will probably be evacuated due to Hurricane Florence as it nears the east Coast.
In a statement, the Red Cross said as many as 100,000 people may need emergency shelter.
The Red Cross said more than 700 disaster workers are en route to help, the statement said.
To help those affected by the hurricane, you can visit the Red Cross website, by calling 1-800-Red-Cross or texting the word FLORENCE to 90999 to make a $10 donation.
You can also help by donating blood. The Red Cross said they are in need of Platelets and Type 'O' blood.
If you are caught in the path of the storm, the Red Cross says to follow the following safety steps:
• Turn on your TV/radio, or check your city/county website every 30 minutes in order to get the latest weather updates and emergency instructions.
• If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Do not drive around barricades, or through high water. Remember, if you encounter flooded roadways, turn around, don’t drown!
• Know how you’ll communicate with family members once the storm passes. You can call, text, email or use social media. Remember that during disasters, text instead of calling because phone lines are often overloaded.
• Anyone who plans to stay in a Red Cross shelter should bring prescription medications, extra clothing, pillows, blankets, hygiene supplies, other comfort items and important documents. Don’t forget to bring any special items for children, such as diapers, formula and toys, or for family members who have unique needs.
• Fill your car's gas tank in case an evacuation notice is issued.
• Build an emergency kit that contains supplies for about three days, to include a gallon of water per person per day, non-perishable food, a flashlight and extra batteries, a first aid kit, medications and copies of important documents. Other recommended items are available at redcross.org/kit. Remember items for young children such as diapers, and family members with special medical needs.
• Don’t forget your pets. Bring them indoors and maintain direct control of them. Prepare an emergency kit for your pets, including sturdy leashes or pet carriers, food and water, bowls, cat litter and pan, and photos of you with your pet in case they get lost. Full details are available on redcross.org.
• Before the storm hits, find a place to store outside items such as lawn furniture, toys, gardening tools and trash cans to prevent them from being moved by high winds and possibly hurting someone.
• Protect windows with permanent storm shutters or invest in one-half inch marine plywood that is pre-cut to fit your doors and windows.
• Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts to prevent flooding and unnecessary pressure on the awnings.
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