Wildfires are an unfortunate reality in Southern California as we head into the hot summer and fall months, and the Red Cross is ramping up their efforts to recruit volunteers.
“Los Angeles is in a position to face a huge disaster with wildfire season and COVID-19 both hitting the community at the same time," observed Joselito Garcia-Ruiz, Regional Disaster Program Officer for the Red Cross Los Angeles Region in a press release. "We have analyzed the situation and we need help. We need the community’s help.
“First, ensure that you and your loved ones are prepared, so you can be available to step up and serve your community. Then sign up to train as a Red Cross volunteer and answer the call to help if the need arises in LA County.”
They're seeking volunteers who are RNs, LPNs, LVNs, APRNs, NPs, EMTs, paramedics, MD/DOs or PAs with active, current, and unencumbered licenses to help assess people's health in shelters. There's also a need for CNAs, Certfied Home Health Aides, student nurses, and medical students.
Because of the pandemic, the Red Cross is working to place those who need a safe place to stay during emergencies in hotel lodging whenever possible. If hotels stays aren't possible, the Red Cross will then open their traditional shelters, with additional precautions and special training for their workforce. Volunteers will be needed to help staff shelter reception, registration, meal distribution, sleeping arrangement, information collection, etc.
In addition, the Red Cross is also looking for established partner organizations to support the pet sheltering effort for evacuations as well.
If you're interested in volunteering, get more info here.