Canadian Red Cross to increase investment in preparedness

(June 17, 2009, Ottawa) – While the number of natural disasters in 2008 was the lowest in a decade, the number of people reported killed was the second highest. According to the 2009 World Disasters Report, released by the International Federation of Red Cross Red Crescent Societies, action before disaster strikes can help reduce this deadly trend.

The Canadian Red Cross will increase its fundraising efforts to support programs that help vulnerable regions prepare for disaster.

“Investments in prevention and preparedness activities are investments in the future,” says Conrad Sauvé, Secretary General, Canadian Red Cross. “Between the global economic downturn and the increasing challenge of climate change, that is the most effective and financially prudent way for vulnerable countries to save lives.”

Pre-positioning emergency stocks, training volunteers, effective early warning systems to alert people about danger and building the capacity and resilience of communities are examples of effective ways to reduce the impact and risks associated with disasters.

In a recent report, approximately 60 per cent of Canadians surveyed by Leger Marketing in February 2009 agreed that the creation of a Prevention and Preparedness Fund fits with the Red Cross mandate. Based on this, along with its importance globally, the Canadian Red Cross aims to increase risk reduction programming in the coming years.

Canadians can help ensure that the Canadian Red Cross is prepared to respond quickly to disasters by supporting the International Disaster Relief and Canadian Disaster Relief Funds, which allow the Red Cross to respond within hours of an emergency. These funds are an essential lifeline to people when they need help the most.

To learn more about the Canadian Red Cross, disaster preparedness or the 2009 World Disaster Report, please visit www.redcross.ca.

The Canadian Red Cross is a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, which includes the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the International Committee of the Red Cross and 187 national Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Our mission is to improve the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity in Canada and around the world.

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For more information please contact: Canadian Red Cross media line - 613-740-1994

Posted June 17, 2009