Help for Hurricane Katrina Victims

Congressman Brad Sherman on Thursday commended the outpouring of support for victims of Hurricane Katrina and thanked constituents who contacted his offices here and in Washington looking for ways to help.

"People who lived through the Northridge earthquake have a special sympathy for victims of another one of the worst natural disasters in our nation's history," Sherman said.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency is coordinating the federal response to the deadly storm and suggestions on how to help are posted on its website.

The American Red Cross is directly involved in the Katrina relief effort. Donations go for much-needed food, water, blankets, medicine, shelter and relief workers. Information on how to help is online or at 1 900 HELP NOW.

In addition to an outpouring of financial assistance from Californians, hundreds of firefighters and search-and-rescue crews from the state are headed to New Orleans and the region along the Gulf of Mexico coast that was devastated by Katrina. The 70-strong Los Angeles urban rescue team left Wednesday from Fire Station No. 88 here in Sherman Oaks en route to the devastated region.

As the heroic rescue efforts in dangerous conditions were underway, Sherman said he hoped the calamity finally will convince federal, state and local officials to devote more thought and resources to disaster prevention measures.

"Maybe we will finally wise up," he said. "It makes sense and saves money in the long run to take steps before disasters strike that will prevent the loss of lives and reduce property destruction."

Speaking of preparation, San Fernando Valley native son Kevin Roderick has posted on LAobserved a reminder that it is always earthquake season. He asks readers if they have put away water, food, cash, a radio and flashlight batteries, and points to the Los Angeles Fire Department earthquake kit available online.

Source: Rep. Sherman's Office