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In Mali, every year between July and September, heavy rains fall across the country. Some regions, such as Sikasso, are hit harder than others and the damage goes far beyond material goods. Families are left homeless, flooded areas quickly become breeding grounds for diseases such as malaria, which is a leading cause of death in children under five. One of the essential roles of Red Cross volunteers is to support people affected by disasters.

Snow, freezing rain, black ice, slush, muck and mud cover roads in potentially every month of the year. Following these four winter driving tips will prepare you for a safe winter journey and indoctrinate yourself with some truly Canadian knowledge. 
 

Winter is just around the corner. Time to grab some hot chocolate and warm up by the fire. Get your jackets, scarfs, gloves, and boots ready because it is going to be a frosty one! Unfortunately, winter isn’t coming alone. He is bringing his uninvited friend: the dreaded winter storm. It can strike at any time and last for days. Are you prepared if one blows your way? Learn the following tips to stay safe during a winter storm.

Recently, Red Cross provided assistance to a family in Saskatchewan who survived a catastrophic house fire. The family was barbecuing on their deck. The son stepped out to check on dinner but hesitated when he reached the grill. The barbecue seemed far too hot, so he returned to the kitchen to fetch some oven mitts. Just as he crossed the threshold, the propane tank exploded.

Shawn Gervais and his family received two alerts on their cell phones before the tornado hit – one warned them of high winds, the next one told them to take shelter immediately. Now the family is recovering from the disaster, with help from the Canadian Red Cross. 

Many of you come to us during disasters with offers of support and donations, but also with questions about how the Red Cross helps in the immediate aftermath of an emergency. We hope this information will help in understanding what type of assistance we provide.

Find out what type of volunteering position you would be great for and join the largest humanitarian organization in the world. We have tons of interesting opportunities available, find out which one would be ideal for you! 

Tamara Begin, a medical logistician from Canada, shares her experience working at the Red Cross Red Crescent field hospital near Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. The field hospital opened one year ago, to provide health care to the more than 700,000 people who fled violence in neighbouring Myanmar.