SPOKANE — Residents returning to homes damaged or destroyed by wildfires can now access free protective equipment and supplies through the American Red Cross.
The organization is handing out disaster kits at Shadle Park High School that contain essential items needed to safely enter fire-damaged properties. Each kit is filled with food, water, personal protective equipment, Tyvek suits, shoe covers, masks, and goggles — all items the Red Cross recommends people have before returning home.
The Red Cross started distributing the kits yesterday and will continue into the middle of the week.
“I would encourage everyone, do not go into an area that has ash without wearing personal protective equipment,” said Brad Kieserman, vice president of disaster operations and logistics for the American Red Cross.
The kits address a critical need for residents whose homes have been severely damaged or destroyed. Many residents are eager to return and assess their properties, but entering damaged structures without proper protection poses serious health and safety risks from ash, debris, and hazardous materials.
The city has posted a map showing evacuated areas still in orange. The blue areas require full PPE, while off-white areas recommend wearing an N-95 mask.
One resident who lost her house near the Rifle Club neighborhood expressed the importance of having protective gear when returning home.
“In the neighborhood, having it on, you know, because there’s so many houses that are burnt up,” she said.
The Red Cross emphasizes that while homes can be rebuilt, many personal belongings cannot be replaced. The organization’s disaster kits help residents safely recover irreplaceable items from their properties.
“While you can replace a home, there are some material things you can’t replace. So to be able to help people do that safely,” Kieserman said.
People are grateful for the resources the Red Cross has been providing during this extremely difficult time. Fire departments are also handing out kits with N-95 masks to anyone who needs them at the Indian Trail Shopping Center, River Ridge Shopping Center, Five Mile Park & Ride, and the intersection of 9 Mile Road and Royal Drive until 7 p.m. today.
Another resident praised the Red Cross’s efforts at the disaster facility.
“We’re down here at the disaster facility and everybody has been really, really good. The Red Cross was very, very helpful,” said Patrice Savage.
The Red Cross will distribute kits at Shadle Park High School through Wednesday at 6 p.m. Residents in need of disaster kits are encouraged to visit the distribution site during these hours.
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