Preparing for the Republican National Convention goes far beyond speeches and events coming up in the next week. For the American Red Cross, it's about preparing in case of emergencies or should people be displaced from their homes.
Regional Disaster Officer Tim O'Toole said the preparations need to made in advance, especially since members of the media and others have booked many (if not all) the hotel rooms in Cleveland and surrounding areas.
"There's very little occupancy available so that they can not be housed in other locations, so we're prepared to assist them with other lodging alternatives, such as opening shelters," said O'Toole.
O'Toole says more than 100 volunteers have received the training to prepare for any requests for shelter, food, or supplies that may be needed in case of emergencies.
"We have locations identified, we have people on standby, we have equipment that;s been relocated and deployed throughout the region and the area to be able to respond quickly rather than be reactive if something were to occur."
Although the Red Cross has volunteers on standby to assist the organization, officials say they are always accepting additional help.