Nearly 170 Affected Residents Staying in Red Cross Shelters Thursday Night
DUBOIS – In response to the destructive flood waters and heavy downpours, the American Red Cross in Western Pennsylvania is operating two local shelters, supporting one shelter, mobilizing its workforce as well as preparing mobile feeding and relief supplies distribution.
Local Red Cross volunteers are on-the-ground staffing two shelter locations. The shelter sites include Dubois High School located at 425 Orient Ave. in DuBois and Sigel Community Center located in Sigel, Jefferson County. As of 10:30 p.m. Thursday night, there are approximately 170 affected individuals seeking refuge in Red Cross shelters. The organization is equipped with shelter trailers in Dubois and Sigel to provide assistance to a possible increase in individuals seeking shelter.
The organization is also supporting a shelter operation at the United Methodist Church of Big Run, located at 100 Church St. in Big Run. As part of the support, the local Red Cross supplied the shelter with cots and blankets.
As part of the relief operation, Red Cross emergency response vehicles will be canvassing the affected areas in Jefferson and Clearfield counties to distribute relief supplies, food, snacks, water and support Friday morning.
In the coming days, the Red Cross will be working closely with local government officials to address the immediate needs of the affected residents in Jefferson and Clearfield counties.
Flood Recovery Tips
• Return home only when officials have declared the area safe.
• Before entering your home, look outside for loose power lines, damaged gas lines, foundation cracks or other damage.
• Parts of your home may be collapsed or damaged. Approach entrances carefully. See if porch roofs and overhangs have all their supports.
• If you smell natural or propane gas or hear a hissing noise, leave immediately and call the fire department.
• If power lines are down outside your home, do not step in puddles or standing water.
• Keep children and pets away from hazardous sites and floodwater.
• Materials such as cleaning products, paint, batteries, contaminated fuel and damaged fuel containers are hazardous. Check with local authorities for assistance with disposal to avoid risk.
• During cleanup, wear protective clothing, including rubber gloves and rubber boots.
• Make sure your food and water are safe. Discard items that have come in contact with floodwater, including canned goods, water bottles, plastic utensils and baby bottle nipples. When in doubt, throw it out.
Additional flood safety tips can be found on RedCross.org. For more information, or to request assistance from the Red Cross, call 814-371-2750.