Shreveport firefighters, Red Cross assist Texas flood victims

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – The Shreveport Fire Department and the local American Red Cross are stepping in to help flood victims in central Texas. Fire department personnel and Red Cross volunteers are there, offering support.

The aftermath of historic flooding in central Texas prompted calls for support from agencies across the U.S., including those in Louisiana.

“We’re gonna partner together to create one big team,” said Calvin Baker Jr., SFD chief of special operations and safety.

The Shreveport fire department deployed a four-person team to assist with recovery and rescue operations.

The American Red Cross is also deploying a volunteer from Alexandria.

All are ready to assist in any way possible.

“Go in there and lend some assistance to these guys, direct for swift water technicians. And so our guys are certified and trained in this level,” said Baker.

“Some shelters provide a place for people to go to charge their phones, you know, charge any things they have to have a place to sleep at night.” said executive director of the NWLA American Red Cross Karen McCoy.

McCoy says mental health professionals are also on standby because many survivors battle emotional distress as recovery efforts continue.

“We have two reunification centers open. What that allows is for people that are not able to find their loved ones… They can go to the reunification center,” said McCoy.

The Shreveport Fire Department says as search efforts continue, they know what they are facing.

“In flood areas, you prepare for the worst, you prepare for the worst, we slept in tents. We slept in outside on cots or whatever the case may be, but we’re there to help,” said Baker. “We’re there to utilize and give our assistance the best way we can.

McCoy says volunteers are always welcome.

“If seeing all this inspires you to put on a red vest, we would love to have you volunteer,” said McCoy.