Red Cross workers are taking extra precautions while assisting families if disaster strikes as the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues across the nation.
Montana Red Cross spokesman Max Ochsner says the organization has responded to 25 house fires in Montana and Idaho during the month of March.
Ochsner said Red Cross workers are practicing extra safety measures including limiting face-to-face interaction during the pandemic. He says crews are working remote over the phone or using video services to connect with displaced families.
Ochsner told MTN News that if workers must meet in person crews are practicing social distancing and providing masks for both workers and families in need. He added these measures will stay in place for the foreseeable future.
“Of course we’re going to continue to help those families to deliver those services, but what we do now may look a little bit different than it did a few months ago, so we’re really having those discussions, working with our partners, and putting our self in position to deliver those services,” said Ochsner.
Some 90% of the Red Cross workforce in Montana are volunteers. Ochsner said those interested in volunteering our asked to visit Montana Red Cross.