Red Cross Stages Disaster Drills
The American Red Cross tested disaster readiness Saturday in its second annual day of nationwide drills to assess its ability to respond to emergencies.
Authorities in cities across the country simulated emergency conditions for natural disasters, terrorist bombings, fires, hazardous material spills and plane crashes that would require first aid, logistical work and emergency shelter or evacuation.
About 900 Red Cross chapters participated, said Don Jones, vice president for disaster services.
Examples of the day’s exercises included a hurricane on the East Coast, flooding of the Mississippi River similar to that which occurred in 1993, power outages in Wisconsin and other states, and fires.