Red Cross opens service center for storm victims in Appleton

APPLETON Saturday, 03 Sep 2011, 9:39 PM CDT Fox 11

Due to the power outage, the American Red Cross said it now has a service center open at Appleton West High School at 610 N. Badger Avenue, Appleton.

The Red Cross is staffing the facility until 11:00p.m.

Red Cross officials say people affected by the outages are invited to recharge their electronic devices, take showers (please bring towel/toiletries), they will be given snacks, water, hot coffee and overall information.

If the need for overnight accommodations exists, the Red Cross asks you arrive by 11:00p.m. and/or call 920-231-3590.

The agency will provide a cot, blankets, pillow and breakfast if the need exists. Individuals should bring their medications, personal comfort items, etc.

The Red Cross has provided the following FAQ for storm victims:

Q. I have no power. Is there anything I should do if I’m using a generator?

A. Make sure you set the generator up outside, not in your house, basement or garage. Place the unit away from doors, windows and vents. You don’t want the carbon monoxide to come indoors. When using a portable generator, connect the equipment you want to power directly to the outlets on the generator. Do not connect a portable generator to your home’s electrical system.

Q. My power has been out. What should I do about my food?

A. Throw away any food that has been exposed to temperatures 40° F (4° C) for 2 hours or more or that has an unusual odor, color or texture. When in doubt, throw it out! Never taste food or rely on appearance or odor to determine its safety. Some foods may look and smell fine, but if they have been at room temperature too long, bacteria causing food ¬borne illnesses can start growing quickly. Some types of bacteria produce toxins that cannot be destroyed by cooking. If food in the freezer is colder than 40° F and has ice crystals on it, you can refreeze it. If you are not sure food is cold enough, take its temperature with the food thermometer. Throw out any foods (meat, poultry, fish, eggs and leftovers) that have been exposed to temperatures higher than 40° F (4° C) for 2 hours or more, and any food that has an unusual odor, color or texture, or feels warm to touch.

Q. How can the American people help?

A. The best way to help is to make a donation to Red Cross Disaster Relief, which supports our work in response to disasters like hurricanes and floods, as well as countless crises at home and around the world. People can donate to Red Cross disaster relief by going to redcross.org or calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). They can also text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation with their mobile phone. Contributions may also be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.