If disaster strikes Annandale, Red Cross volunteers will be ready

If there’s a major disaster in Annandale, the American Legion Post could be used as a shelter for people displaced from their homes.

On May 30, Red Cross volunteers carried out a training exercise at the post, at 4206 Daniels Ave., to make sure they’re ready in case something terrible happens.

The exercise was modeled on the response to a freight train derailment in Alexandria in 2003, said facilitator Alex Zhang. No one was killed, but there was a possibility of hazardous materials leakage.

A train wreck won’t happen in Annandale, but other disasters could strike, such as a major storm, flood, earthquake, multi-vehicle crash, or terrorist attack.

On Saturday morning, about 25 volunteers practiced how they would help victims of a major disaster who do not need emergency medical services. People who are injured, of course, would be transported to the hospital or treated on site by medical personnel.

Red Cross volunteers would register people who’d been displaced from their homes, provide food and basic necessities, set up cots, and ensure they have somewhere safe to stay, said Zhang.

Some of the participants had volunteered with the Red Cross before. Volunteers have to complete a certain number of training sessions before they can be called to help at a real disaster.

Zhang, a Marine veteran, also organizes blood drives for the American Legion.

The American Legion has partnered with the Red Cross since 1937, he said, and so far has donated $250,000 to the Red Cross.

Next month, Zhang will facilitate a simulation training exercise where volunteers will practice treating people playing the role of victims.