Siouxland Red Cross volunteers head to Florida ahead of storm - KTIV News 4 Sioux City IA: News, Weather and Sports

The Siouxland Red Cross is doing what it can as Isaac heads towards the Florida Panhandle.

Three volunteers from the Siouxland chapter left today for Tampa.

Six more Iowa volunteers also made their way towards the Sunshine State.

Their role, to open and run shelters for possible hurricane victims.

"Do some pre-disaster work, getting shelters ready because when the disaster hits, that's too late to start getting ready," said Stephen Wendel, Siouxland Red Cross Volunteer.

After arriving in Tampa, volunteers will be deployed to area of the state where the help is needed.

Organizers say it's important that crews get there ahead of the storm to prevent any complications.

"Biggest concern right now is get the volunteers in place, within driving distance because when it hits, it's very hard to get into the airports," said Bob Bartling, regional response director for American Red Cross.

More than 20 emergency response vehicles are already in place in Florida, with 28 more on the way.

Volunteers are currently scheduled to stay and help with disaster relief for two to three weeks.