Now that you have filled out all the forms, taken the required classes and have been issued a DSHR #, there are many resources that help to explain Red Cross policies and procedures.

CrossNet
All volunteers and employees in the American Red Cross are eligible to logon to CrossNet, the American Red Cross secure national website. CrossNet is an excellent information and communication resource for staying abreast of all areas of Red Cross activity and is literally our most valuable tool for communicating to and informing Red Crossers nationwide of the many issues facing the organization. There is no fee charged but your chapter director/manager must submit the request. Contact Volunteer Services at the chapter to request access to CrossNet.

Photo Indentification Badges
The chapter will issue you a photo identification badge. You will be expected to have and wear the badge when you volunteer. Badges are good for two years from the issue date. If you have not had your photo taken, contact the IT Department to find out the next scheduled time when badges are being created.

Health Records
Your Health Records need to be updated each year. They are kept under lock and key by Health Services. If it's time to fill out your health record form, you can download it in PDF online form and send it to Health Services.

Local Deployment
The Red Cross trains volunteers all year-round to help others.  When disaster strikes, we deploy trained individuals to respond to the affected area to take care of the particular needs at that time.  The Capital Area Chapter responds to approximately 300 disasters each year, most of which are local fires in single family homes and apartments.  Volunteers responding to these local disasters are call Disaster Action Teams (DAT) and sign up for two week shifts. DAT members respond as needed during these shifts. 

National Deployment
Our disaster volunteers who deploy to large scale national disasters such as hurricanes are typically sent for 10 days to 3 weeks at a time.  Disaster volunteers who deploy out of the area MUST have an up-to-date health forms completed prior to deployment.