Red Cross Establishing Shelters In Oklahoma Counties After Day Of Severe Weather

The Red Cross has already begun work on establishing shelters and providing resources to Oklahoma cities impacted by Saturday's extreme weather.

According to the Red Cross, their disaster workers are in contact with a dozen county officials, working to help those, injured, displaced, or otherwise recovering from the storms.

A shelter in Sulpher has already been opened at Crossway Church, 2108 W Broadway Ave. For information about open shelters, visit redcross.org/shelter.

Those needing help can also call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline for free at 1-800-985-5990 if you need to talk to someone.

The Red Cross offers the following services at their shelters:

1. A safe place to sleep
2. Meals, snacks, and water
3. Health services (for disaster-related conditions), such as first aid, refilling lost prescriptions or replacing lost eyeglasses
4. Emotional support and mental health services
5. Spiritual care
6. Help reconnecting with loved ones
7. Information about disaster-related resources in the community

In the aftermath of a tornado, or severe weather event, the Red Cross also reminds everyone to stay safe by following some easy-to-remember tips.

1. Avoid injury
2. Do not enter damaged buildings.
3. If the building you are in has been damaged, exit with extreme care and stay out. Look around for things that might fall or dangerous debris. Do not use matches or lighters inside. If you smell gas or see spills that could be flammable, leave immediately.
4. Watch out for exposed nails and broken glass.
5. Stay clear of fallen power lines or broken utility lines.
6. Be careful during clean-up. Wear thick-soled shoes, long pants, and work gloves to reduce injuries.
7. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.
8. If power is out, use flashlights or battery-powered lanterns to reduce fire risk.
9. Be aware of carbon monoxide poisoning. Do not use gasoline, propane, natural gas, or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, basement, garage, tent, or camper, or even outside near an open window. Carbon monoxide can’t be seen or smelled, but it can kill you fast. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak, get to fresh air right away — do not delay.

Gov. Kevin Stitt released the following statement:

“My prayers are with those who lost loved ones as tornadoes ripped through Oklahoma last night. Thank you to Oklahoma Emergency Management and those who have worked through the night to keep Oklahomans safe and have worked to clear debris and assess damage.”