Evacuation orders continue due to fires in northern and southern areas of California while the American Red Cross and other organizations provide resources. Companies may consider halting communication with consumers during this time.
11/12/2018 10:00
Wildfires in northern and southern California, including the “Camp Fire” and “Woolsey Fire,” continue to prompt evacuation orders and emergency response from firefighters and organizations such as the American Red Cross.
ACA International recommends members connect with the American Red Cross for resources and updated safety information.
The Red Cross and local governments have numerous evacuation centers open where hundreds of people are seeking refuge, along with centers that are accepting animals, according to a news release. Weather forecasts call for more hot and dry weather, which could lead to more fires. The Red Cross is working with local officials to monitor the situation and respond as needed.
The website redcross.org or the Red Cross Emergency App has current information on evacuation centers.
Visit the American Red Cross website for resources if you are in the path of the fires or to help people in the multiple areas of the state impacted by these fires. If you are interested in helping, you can donate by calling (800) RED CROSS or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.
The American Red Cross also offers a website to find loved ones in areas affected by a disaster and to mark yourself “safe and well” if you are in those areas.
In the case of wildfires, it’s crucial to listen to local state officials and be prepared to evacuate quickly. The American Red Cross has helpful wildfire safety steps available online.
Companies in the accounts receivable management industry may consider stopping or modifying collection activities with consumers in California while recovery efforts continue. Clients may have guidance for emergency communication expectations and the impact of collection efforts in these areas. Additionally, collection efforts may be fruitless until consumers can recover from the fires. Many debt collectors opt to suspend communication attempts until mail delivery and telephone service is available in disaster-stricken areas, Collector magazine editor Anne Rosso May recently reported. Read more tips on communication strategies during a disaster here.