Assistance Available for Those Impacted by Oklahoma Wildfires
Wildfires engulfed more than 100,000 acres in western Oklahoma, threatening homes, farms and businesses and forcing evacuations. As of Wednesday, firefighters were working to contain blazes in parts of Ellis County, according to News 9. Track the latest wildfires and red flag warnings with the Oklahoma wildfire and smoke map that is updated hourly.
Assistance for Oklahomans
News 9 reports evacuation shelters are open at the following locations:
Fort Supply Baptist Church, 219 Sheridan, Fort Supply, OK
Roger Mills County Courthouse, 500 E Broadway, Cheyenne, OK
Vici Community Room, 604 Main Street, Vici, OK
Woodward Conference Center, 3401 Centennial Drive, Woodward, OK
Cattlemen’s Foundation Wildfire Disaster Relief
American Red Cross
The Salvation Army
Disaster Preparedness
The fast-changing situation reminds us of the importance of having an emergency plan.
- Create a three-day grab and go bag, and a seven-day shelter in place bag. Downloadable charts are available for both here.
- Learn your evacuation routes, practice with households, pets, and identify where you will go.
- Download the FEMA app and receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations nationwide.
- Review important documents. Make sure your insurance policies and personal documents like ID are up to date.
Related stories:
· Technology to Have During a Natural Disaster: Free apps and affordable gadgets can help before and after extreme weather.
· AARP Disaster Resilience Tool Kit: A free publication for how local leaders can reduce risks and better protect older adults.
· Safety During Natural Disasters: At home or on the road, these tips can help you stay out of harm's way in dangerous weather.
· Guide to Expanding Mitigation: Making the Connection to Older Adults: This guide highlights innovative and emerging partnerships for mitigation.
· 7 Tips for Avoiding Fraud When Donating to Charities: Criminals may take advantage of your generosity and steal your cash.
· Disaster Scams: Disasters can bring out the best in people, but it also brings scammers for whom others’ misfortune is just a chance to make a fast buck.
· Tips to Avoid Frauds and Scams Following Natural Disasters: Tips and advice on avoiding post-disaster scams from the AARP Fraud Watch Network.
· Visit aarp.org/okhelp for assistance related to weather-related property damage, home rebate programs, and help to pay utility bills.
