During the snow-sleet-ice storm recently many people in Sebago and area towns lost their power, some for nearly two days. Warming shelters were opened in New Gloucester, Monmouth, Augusta, and Litchfield for people who had lost power and needed a warm place to stay for the night, get a hot meal or a shower. American Red Cross shelter workers were put on alert for shelter openings in Bridgton and Raymond, but fortunately these were not needed.
Fortunately we did not have to open a shelter in Sebago, and our power outages were not as widespread or long-term as some of the other towns in our area. However, this type of severe weather is no stranger to Mainers, and we need to be prepared to deal with it when it comes.
Sebago has designated the Sebago Town Hall as the town's primary emergency shelter. The American Red Cross has approved it as a shelter that can house 100 people during a disaster such as the recent storm. We have stockpiled cots and blankets, and are in the process of stockpiling other supplies to feed and care for people who need to take shelter there in the event of an ice storm, flood, hurricane or any other natural disaster that forces people from their homes.
The most critical need is now for workers to help staff the shelter when it is opened in a future emergency. Volunteers are needed to sign people in, to set up cots and distribute blankets, to cook and serve hot meals, and generally to provide loving care and assistance to our neighbors who are in need. Anyone who can volunteer a little time to assist during an emergency is encouraged to sign up for a Red Cross shelter worker training class.
The Red Cross class will be held on Monday evening, March 24 and continue on Thursday evening, March 27 at the Sebago Town Hall. The course is free but advance registration is required so we can plan on the number of training manuals and materials to bring.
Please consider volunteering so that you will be trained and can help when the next disaster strikes. Call Allen Crabtree at (207) 787-2730 or e-mail him at crabtree@crabcoll.com if you would like to sign up, or for more information.
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