Red Cross and La Sal create shelter agreement for Deer Creek fire, other disasters

LA SAL, Utah (ABC4) — The Red Cross of Utah has made an agreement with the La Sal Recreation Special Service District to use a community center for emergency sheltering.

The agreement gives the Red Cross access to the La Sal Community Center on Highway 46 for emergency sheltering. In the face of the Deer Creek Fire forcing evacuations and destroying structures, the need for emergency shelters becomes even more apparent.

Under this agreement, the Community Center will provide critical shelter and support “when it’s needed most,” according to the Red Cross.

Reportedly, this agreement is the first formal emergency shelter agreement in San Juan County. The La Sal Community Center is currently open as a cooling center to help evacuees due to the Deer Creek Fire.

The La Sal Community Center has a history of supporting the community during emergencies, and according to the Red Cross, this agreement will improve its ability to be a resource for disaster preparedness and response.

“The Deer Creek Fire is a stark reminder of how quickly disasters can strike, and this agreement will help us provide a safe and reliable space for those in need,” Chair of the La Sal Recreation Special Service District board Kristl Johnson said.

According to the Red Cross, pre-established agreements and facilities allow the Red Cross to open shelters more quickly in the case of disaster.

“Having access to the La Sal Community Center will allow us to respond more effectively to disasters like the Deer Creek Fire and provide comfort and care to those affected,” Executive Director of the American Red Cross Central and Southern Utah Chapter Benjamin Donner said.

The Deer Creek Fire has burned roughly 12,906 acres, and residents north of Highway 46 between the intersection of Upper 2 Mile Road and the Utah-Colorado state line remain under evacuation orders by San Juan County Sheriff.