An American Red Cross chapter in South Dakota is getting a new emergency response vehicle. The truck is outfitted to respond to multiple types of disasters.
Patty Brooks is the executive director of the Eastern South Dakota Chapter. She says the new truck helps fulfill the organization’s mission.
“To be able to have an ERV, and so we can deploy that anywhere in a matter of hours if we get it stocked and situated and get people to drive the ERV.” Brooks says, “So, it’s just exciting to be able to help where help is needed.”
The purchase of the vehicle is funded by donations. Brooks says the vehicle includes improved safety features and ergonomic systems to help volunteers distribute food, cleanup supplies, and other essential relief items.
The Eastern South Dakota Chapter responded to 105 disaster incidents last year.