September 1, 2010 Wilmington, DE- The American Red Cross is on alert and increasing its preparations for Hurricane Earl, a category 3 storm. The East Coast could feel the effects of Hurricane Earl as early as Thursday and the Red Cross is getting ready. Hurricane Earl is approximately 500 miles wide and the effects could cause flooding and high winds far inland even if the eye does not make landfall on the east coast.

The National American Red Cross has trained disaster workers, mobile response vehicles and warehouses stocked with relief supplies on alert along the East Coast. This is predicted to be a fast moving storm, so residents should be getting prepared. Now is a good time to finalize hurricane plans and update emergency supplies kits.

The Red Cross recommends three quick steps to take now to be prepared for emergencies like hurricanes – build a kit, make a plan and be informed.

Hurricane Earl is likely to cause powerful rip currents all along the East Coast. The Red Cross advises anyone visiting beaches to swim only on lifeguard protected beaches and within designated swimming areas.

• If caught in a rip current, remember to remain calm and avoid fighting against the current. Instead, swim out of the current in a direction following the shoreline. • If unable to swim out of the current, float or calmly tread water. If possible, yell for help and draw attention to yourself.