Monday afternoon, volunteers with the local chapter of the American Red Cross were wiping down tables, stocking food items and preparing the shelter at First United Methodist Church, 37 E. Beauregard Ave., for anyone in need after Saturday morning's storms.
“We have the refreshments, we have water, we have snacks and we have places for them to sit and talk,” Frank Barka, American Red Cross program manager, said.
About 14 people stayed at the shelter over the weekend, and Barka said the shelter is prepared to take in about 80 people, if needed.
“You can see we are standing by in the event the winds come in. We have the refreshments, we have water, we have snacks and we have places for them to sit and talk,” Barka said.
There are items the American Red Cross suggests people bring with them.
Barka also suggests even if people are not planning on heading to the shelter to pack a “ready bag” filled with a change of clothes and personal hygiene items. It's also a good idea to prepare now in case you need to leave town tomorrow.
“They have a tank full of gas and we have issues where they are driving somewhere,” Barka said.
In the event of a major storm, if power is lost, drivers may not be able to fill up their gas tanks.
