American Red Cross assisting with Iowa recovery efforts

Immediate help is being put in place for individuals and families impacted by Monday's devastating derecho storm across Iowa.

According to the American Red Cross, the non-profit is working with local partners and emergency agencies to help those who are still without power.

They say lodging and meals have been provided to hundreds of people who either lost their homes or had their home severely damaged.

For now, the Red Cross is sticking to COVID-19 precautions for lodging by putting those who need housing in hotels rather than open congregate shelters.

The organization has safety tips for those who are still without power:

Use flashlights, instead of candles in dark.

Eliminate any unnecessary travel when traffic and streetlights are out.

Throw out any unsafe, perishable food. Perishable refrigerated food is only safe for four hours in an unopened refrigerator. A full freezer can keep food good for up to 48 hours.

Store any non-perishable food in cool, dry places at all times.

Turn off or unplug electronics. A power surge can damage appliances and sensitive electronics.

Be sure to understand the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning and practice generator safety.

Those who are in need of help are encouraged to call: 1-800-RED-CROSS and select option “4”, then option “2”, then option “2” again.