×

News publications and other organizations are encouraged to reuse Direct Relief-published content for free under a Creative Commons License (Attribution-Non-Commercial-No Derivatives 4.0 International), given the republisher complies with the requirements identified below.

When republishing:

  • Include a byline with the reporter’s name and Direct Relief in the following format: "Author Name, Direct Relief." If attribution in that format is not possible, include the following language at the top of the story: "This story was originally published by Direct Relief."
  • If publishing online, please link to the original URL of the story.
  • Maintain any tagline at the bottom of the story.
  • With Direct Relief's permission, news publications can make changes such as localizing the content for a particular area, using a different headline, or shortening story text. To confirm edits are acceptable, please check with Direct Relief by clicking this link.
  • If new content is added to the original story — for example, a comment from a local official — a note with language to the effect of the following must be included: "Additional reporting by [reporter and organization]."
  • If republished stories are shared on social media, Direct Relief appreciates being tagged in the posts:
    • Twitter (@DirectRelief)
    • Facebook (@DirectRelief)
    • Instagram (@DirectRelief)

Republishing Images:

Unless stated otherwise, images shot by Direct Relief may be republished for non-commercial purposes with proper attribution, given the republisher complies with the requirements identified below.

  • Maintain correct caption information.
  • Credit the photographer and Direct Relief in the caption. For example: "First and Last Name / Direct Relief."
  • Do not digitally alter images.

Direct Relief often contracts with freelance photographers who usually, but not always, allow their work to be published by Direct Relief’s media partners. Contact Direct Relief for permission to use images in which Direct Relief is not credited in the caption by clicking here.

Other Requirements:

  • Do not state or imply that donations to any third-party organization support Direct Relief's work.
  • Republishers may not sell Direct Relief's content.
  • Direct Relief's work is prohibited from populating web pages designed to improve rankings on search engines or solely to gain revenue from network-based advertisements.
  • Advance permission is required to translate Direct Relief's stories into a language different from the original language of publication. To inquire, contact us here.
  • If Direct Relief requests a change to or removal of republished Direct Relief content from a site or on-air, the republisher must comply.

For any additional questions about republishing Direct Relief content, please email the team here.

Wildfires Rage Across Oklahoma and Texas, Posing Severe Health Risks 

News

Wildfires

Extremely critical fire weather conditions spread from Texas into much of Oklahoma and southeast Kansas. (NOAA)

A series of fast-moving wildfires erupted today across Oklahoma and Texas, fueled by extreme winds reaching up to 80 mph. The fires have already led to evacuations in communities in Oklahoma, with widespread power outages affecting over 220,000 homes. The National Weather Service has issued red flag warnings, signaling a high potential for further fire growth due to dry conditions, strong winds, and warm temperatures. 

Direct Relief’s Wildfire Response 

Direct Relief is reaching out to its network of healthcare provider organizations to offer support and assess needs. The organization has extensive experience responding to wildfires across the U.S., providing essential medicines and supplies, N95 masks, and other essentials to healthcare facilities and first responders.  

Most recently, Direct Relief mobilized aid in response to the catastrophic Palisades and Eaton Fires that tore through Los Angeles in January. 

Health Risks of Wildfire Smoke 

Wildfires pose significant health risks, particularly through smoke inhalation. Wildfire smoke contains particulate matter and toxic gases, which can cause respiratory issues such as coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Individuals with existing respiratory issues including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or heart conditions are especially vulnerable, as exposure can exacerbate symptoms and increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.  

Studies have also linked prolonged exposure to wildfire smoke with increased mortality, adverse birth outcomes, and long-term respiratory conditions.  Children, the elderly, and those with preexisting health conditions face the greatest risks. 

As the wildfires in Oklahoma and Texas unfold, Direct Relief remains committed to supporting communities facing the devastating health and environmental impacts of wildfires. 

Giving is Good Medicine

You don't have to donate. That's why it's so extraordinary if you do.