Team Rubicon Launches Operation: Rising Eagle in Response to Tornado Outbreak
Los Angeles (PRWEB) April 29, 2014 -- Team Rubicon, a veteran-led disaster relief organization, has launched Operation: Rising Eagle to support communities affected by the deadly tornado outbreak in Arkansas.
A reconnaissance team has deployed to Faulkner County, Ark., to gather more information, mobilize resources, and connect with local emergency management agencies while search and rescue efforts are still underway.
The organization unites the skills and experiences of military veterans with first responders to perform a variety of services, which can include debris removal, volunteer management, damage assessment and expedient home repair. The nonprofit most recently conducted debris removal in Western Michigan communities affected by straight-line winds and flooding.
As severe storms and tornado warnings continue to impact much of the country, Team Rubicon reminds the public to stay informed, heed all watches and warnings, and remain prepared. According to the National Weather Service, nearly 75 million Americans are under the threat of severe weather today.
"There is only so much you can do to face Mother Nature, but by taking a few simple measures, you can lessen the effect of any possible storms and save lives," said Jake Wood, CEO of Team Rubicon. "Every dollar spent on preparedness saves four dollars in response and recovery."
Wood urges the public to have emergency supplies--like food, water, flashlights, a NOAA weather radio, and a go-bag for evacuation -- and to stay informed by monitoring local media or downloading mobile applications from organizations like the American Red Cross.
In the event of a tornado, seek shelter in the lowest level of the home--preferably a basement or storm shelter. If there is no basement, go to the center of a small interior room on the lowest level (closet, interior hallway) away from corners, windows, doors, and outside walls. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside. Get under a sturdy table and use your arms to protect your head and neck.
More preparedness tips are available online at http://www.Ready.gov.
Team Rubicon is monitoring the ongoing storms and is prepared to provide assistance to other communities if needed—based upon needs and available resources. Beyond disaster relief, Team Rubicon helps veterans find a renewed sense of purpose—vital as many return to civilian life after more than a decade of war.
The nonprofit was founded in the wake of the 2010 Haiti Earthquake by Wood and William McNulty, both Marine veterans. It has grown from eight to 15,000 members with 56 operations under its belt, including Haiti, Superstorm Sandy, Oklahoma Tornadoes, and Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines.
Team Rubicon is accepting financial contributions for its storm response. To learn more about Team Rubicon’s mission, or to become a supporter, visit http://www.teamrubiconusa.org.
Team Rubicon can also accept bitcoin donations at http://www.bitcoin.teamrubiconusa.org.
About Team Rubicon: Team Rubicon (TR) unites the skills and experience of military veterans with first responders to rapidly deploy emergency response teams. TR offers veterans a chance to continue their service by helping and empowering those afflicted by disasters, and also themselves. For more about Team Rubicon, visit http://www.teamrubiconusa.org.
Sam Kille, Team Rubicon, http://www.teamrubiconusa.org, +1 (516) 782-7062, [email protected]
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