ATC partners with Western Wisconsin American Red Cross to provide disaster relief

Tornadoes, severe storms, floods and fires have impacted many people and communities in our service area. June was a particularly volatile month, with storms and tornadoes causing significant damage throughout western Wisconsin.

American Transmission Co. system operators monitor the grid and watch the weather very carefully. We also have a Transmission Emergency Response Plan that helps employees effectively prepare for and manage emergencies that impact the transmission system.

In addition to a plan for responding to electric transmission emergencies, ATC has committed significant support to the communities it serves as a Red Cross Disaster Partner. The Disaster Partners program provides funds to local Red Cross chapters, which enables them to immediately assist people impacted by disasters such as hurricanes, wildfires, house fires or tornadoes. This support includes shelter, food, clothing, medications and health services.

According to the American Red Cross, every nine minutes emergencies that never make the news leave families without shelter, disconnected from loved ones and in need of lifesaving blood.

The Western Wisconsin Region American Red Cross has produced a handy checklist for disaster planning and emergency kits. Key highlights of the checklist include:

• Create and practice a family disaster plan.

• Assemble an emergency-preparedness kit.

• Have at least one household member trained in first aid and CPR/AED.

• Choose two places to meet if separated by an emergency: Right outside of your home in case of a sudden emergency and outside of your neighborhood, in case you cannot return home or are asked to evacuate.

Visit the Western Wisconsin Region American Red Cross website for more information on preparing for an emergency or disaster.