If your house was burning, what would you take with you?

It’s a question we’ve all thought about. And perhaps Red Crossers think about it more than most since we respond to house fires nearly every day.

But this intriguing blog asks you to answer that question artfully – with a picture of your most treasured possessions.

I’m fascinated by the mix of practical and sentimental items – an album, a cat, a toothbrush, a coat…

Of course, the sad reality is that if you actually do experience a house fire (or any other disaster) you probably won’t get to save everything on that list. And that’s why the Red Cross is there to help – offering food, shelter, basic necessities like toothbrushes and combs, and emotional support.

Speaking of losing everything you have, it’s hard to think about anything today but the tornadoes in Joplin and throughout the country. We’ve got fellow Red Crossers on the ground doing everything they can to help. If you want to keep up with the response, stay tuned to the disaster online newsroom.