[UPDATE]  The Caddo Parish shelter will open at 11AM, instead of 4PM.

[ORIGINAL STORY]  Before the afternoon is over, there will be two American Red Cross shelters open in our area to assist residents dealing with flooding from the Red River.

One of them is at Elm Grove Elemantary School in Bossier Parish. A new one will open in the Southern University Gym at 4PM today.

The Red Cross asks anyone evacuating to these shelters to bring essential items for each family member:

  • Prescriptions and emergency medications
  • Foods that meet unusual dietary requirements
  • Identification to show residence is in affected area and important personal documents
  • Extra clothing, pillows, blankets, hygiene supplies and other comfort items
  • Supplies needed for children and infants, such as diapers, formula and toys
  • Special items for family members who are elderly or disabled
  • Chargers for any electronic devices you bring with you
  • Books, games and other ways to entertain your family and yourself

Here are some other helpful tips from the Red Cross:

  • Get a kit, make a plan, be prepared.
  • Stay informed of flood warnings and reports of flooding in progress or other critical information from the National Weather Service.
  • Be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice.
  • Stay away from floodwaters. If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off your feet.
  • If you come upon a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.
  • Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water.
  • Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood danger.
  • Watch out for wildlife, especially poisonous snakes that may have come into your home with floodwater.

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