DAT form to update information

DISASTER ACTION TEAMS (DAT)

American Red Cross Corporate Goals state that Red Cross will be the leading provider of prompt relief to victims of single-family disasters and will increase the number of people and communities served by its response to single-family disasters.  The chapter has the first-line responsibility to provide disaster services within its jurisdiction.  In order to meet that responsibility, clear lines of authority and accountability must be established with regards to disaster response. On average, the American Red Cross, Illinois Capital Area Chapter responds immediately to more than 100 disasters each year, including house or apartment fires (the majority of disaster responses), floods, tornadoes, hazardous materials spills, transportation accidents, explosions and other natural and human-made disasters.

Red Cross Disaster Action Teams (DAT) are organized to place trained Red Cross volunteers at the scene of a disaster to provide immediate, identifiable emergency services to disaster victims and emergency workers.  In addition to initiating Red Cross relief actions, the team paves the way for mobilizing other chapter and national sector resources that may be required.  The American Red Cross mandate pledges to the community that the American Red Cross will respond with disaster aid 24 hours a day.  It is, therefore, each DAT member’s responsibility to help us carry out this mandate.

There are five levels within the DAT at the Chapter:  Observer, Responder, Leader, Coordinator, and Disaster Action Team Chairperson.  Each level varies in training, responsibilities, and expertise, which are outlined in the job descriptions; however it is the responsibility of each DAT member at every level to ensure adequate coverage is available when a disaster strikes, and providing the most exceptional care to those affected by the disaster.  When accepting an assignment or back-up responsibility, each member will be expected to respond immediately to the call for emergency action.

For more information on how to become a DAT member, please call Amy Eden at (217) 787-7602 ext. 226 or email aeden@il-redcross.org

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