American Red Cross responders have remained vigilant both day and night to help people affected by disasters, including many caused by severe weather across Oregon and SW Washington. Since January 1, 2017, Red Cross responders have helped more than 130 families at more than 50 disasters from Vancouver to Klamath Falls. That’s a more than 117% increase in disaster responses when compared to the same time period last year. In addition to responding to disasters that affect a single family, the local Red Cross has simultaneously been operating a shelter for more than three dozen residents affected by an apartment fire on SW Alder in Portland and shelters for people affected by power outages and extreme cold in Cave Junction and Enterprise, Oregon. With power restored, the shelters in Cave Junction and Enterprise have closed, however the shelter for residents of Hotel Alder remains open at University of Portland. Responders throughout the region remain on standby to assist people who have been impacted by disasters related to the severe weather or otherwise. The Red Cross has already helped at two separate incidents recently including a roof collapse in Hillsboro that left seven people and pets displaced and an apartment fire in Gresham that left nine people displaced. In both cases, the Red Cross provided assistance to people affected to help meet their immediate basic needs (shelter, food, clothing, health and mental health assistance). When the weather is cold, the number of home fire incidents tend to rise. Use caution when heating your home with space heaters, fireplaces and woodstoves. HOME HEATING SAFETY REMINDERS – Caution: Carbon Monoxide Kills – * Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area. Portable Space Heaters – * Keep at least three feet of space between a heater and combustibles such as furniture, curtains, bedding and papers. * Inspect heaters for cracked or damaged cords, broken plugs or loose connections. Replace before using the space heater. * Turn heaters off when not in use, before going to bed or when leaving the room. Fireplaces and Woodstoves – * Have chimney and woodstove flues and vents inspected and cleaned every year. Check for creosote deposits, soot build-up and physical damage. * Always use a fireplace screen made of sturdy metal or heat-tempered glass to prevent sparks from escaping. * Clear the area around the hearth of debris, decorations and flammable materials. * Store kindling, fire logs and wood at least three feet from any heat source. * Use proper fire starters, such as newspaper, kindling or specially manufactured starters designed for indoor use. Never use flammable liquid, such as lighter fluid, kerosene or gasoline to start a fire.
