You are currently browsing the daily archive for July 15th, 2009.
Red Cross Meets Hurricane Preparedness Needs with Condo Kit Invention
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (July 15, 2009) — The Greater Palm Beach Area Chapter of the American Red Cross has designed a Condo Kit to meet the emergency supply needs of up to four people during sudden and unpredictable disasters. With the 2009 Atlantic hurricane season is in full swing, the organization urges members of the community to prepare now for the high probability of a severe storm impacting the surrounding area by first getting a kit. The pre-assembled and compact Condo Kit meets a family’s immediate emergency supply needs with: a weather radio, a flashlight with batteries, water pouches, emergency blankets, N-95 grade dust masks, a water-safe storage container, a first aid kit, rain ponchos, sanitation bags, tissue rolls, and a whistle; all within an emergency toilet.
Simplifying the task of gathering preparedness materials was important to the local Red Cross chapter. Red Cross CEO Larry Casey said, “Far too often, members of the community flood local grocery, convenience and hardware stores in the final hours leading up to a storm only to find empty shelves.” He continued, “The Condo Kit is a convenient solution for populations of people who may otherwise be reluctant to become prepared, and those who simply don’t have time to gather necessary materials.” The supplies contained within the kit meet the sudden and unpredictable demands of an emergency like a hurricane.
The all-new Condo Kit is the brain child of Tony Cortese, Marketing and Communications Director for the Greater Palm Beach Area Chapter. He identified an opportunity so that the organization can most efficiently carry out its mission to help people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies while generating much needed revenue for the Red Cross. The kit, which is available for $70, is an investment in safety, comfort and the community. The U.S. Department of Commerce estimates half of the American population lives within 50 miles of the coast, and although the kit is first being marketed regionally, the local Red Cross anticipates national feedback. Cortese was successful in launching a similar product while working with another Red Cross chapter.
The kits are available by purchase online at www.redcross-pbc.org or by calling (561) 833-7711.
# # #
About the Greater Palm Beach Area Chapter of the American Red Cross:
For over 90 years, the American Red Cross Greater Palm Beach Area Chapter, which includes Glades, Hendry, Okeechobee and Palm Beach counties, has provided relief to victims of disasters at home and abroad, taught lifesaving skills, and supported military members and their families. The American Red Cross, a charity and not a government agency, depends on voluntary contributions of time and money to perform its humanitarian mission. To learn more about the work of the Red Cross in communities, or to make a donation, please call 561-833-7711 or visit our website at www.redcross-pbc.org.
