High Desert Chapter

Become a part of the High Desert Chapter's Disaster Action Team (DAT). The DAT is an integral part of the High Desert Chapter's Disaster Services response to victims of a disaster. DAT members are often the first Red Cross disaster workers to a local disaster. DAT members support the American Red Cross Corporate Goal that the 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 fires. Disaster victims, our community, and local public safety personnel may develop their opinions about the American Red Cross based on the efforts of individual DAT members. Our DAT members carry out their responsibilities in a caring, efficient, and professional manner.

What does a Disaster Action Team do?
A DAT performs the following:

Meets the immediate needs of the victims for food, clothing and shelter;  If needed, opens a temporary shelter or houses the victims in available hotels or motels; Informs chapter staff of the total damage and gives an appraisal of the situation; Determines the immediate need for Red Cross services and support, beyond the team's    capability; Makes sure that all Red Cross activities are well identified.

Who Can Join the Disaster Action Team?
Any person 18 years of age or older who want to help in their community is eligible. All Disaster Action Team members will be trained in damage assessment, mass care, emergency assistance to families, and shelter operations. There is no cost for disaster training.

The Disaster Action Teams meet at the American Medical Response building located at 14828 7th Street in Victorville on the second Tuesday of every other month (even numbered months) at 6 p.m. Come join us and meet others who are making a difference in their community. For additional information about DAT please call (760) 245-6511 and ask for Emergency Services.