The Selma times-Journal

While Hurricane Dennis might blow outside, area residents know they’ll be safe by staying in one of the Black Belt Red Cross’ shelters.

Already some of the shelters are activated, by the time Dennis hits Dallas County, most of them will be in full swing.

According to a release from the ARC, a shelter at the Corrections Academy in Craig Field opened at 2 p.m. on Saturday.

Other shelters will open starting at 9 a.m. Sunday morning at the Selma Convention Center, Westwood Baptist Church and Keith High School.

Non Red Cross shelters are also open at Plantersville Baptist Church and Crystal Light Baptist Church.

“Hurricane Dennis may result in extensive flooding, tornadoes and power outages,” an ARC release stated. “If you haven’t already created your disaster and evacuation plans, please do so now.”

Even if residents do not stay in local shelters, the Red Cross encourages residents to put together a disaster supply kit.

A kit should include a three-day supply of water (one gallon per person a day), ready to eat canned foods (tuna, peanut butter, crackers, canned fruit, juice boxes), a battery-operated radio, flashlight and extra batteries, a manual can opener, comfortable clothing and footwear, sleeping bag or covers, a first aid kit, prescribed medication, cash or credit cards, emergency tools to shut off utilities, an extra set of keys and also special items for infant, elderly or disabled family members.

Any “special needs” residents – residents requiring electricity for medical equipment or oxygen – should call the EMA office at 874-2515.

Anyone wishing to volunteer after the storm with relief efforts can contact the Red Cross at 874-4641 or the Salvation Army at 874-8039.

Fact box:

To stay at an area storm shelter report to the following. Opening times are listed.

Corrections Academy

Building 351 Avenue C

Craig Air Force Base

2 p.m. Saturday

Selma Convention Center

211 Washington St.

9 a.m. Sunday

Westwood Baptist Church

4085 U.S. Highway 80W

2 p.m. Sunday

Keith High School (Orrville)

1166 County Road 115

2 p.m. Sunday