As demonstrated on nola.com's blog section, many individuals know the exact locations and WORKING telephone numbers of family members, most of whom are elderly, sickly, starving, and in serious need of medical attention. When able to get through on emergency telephone numbers, a feat not to be taken lightly, they are dismissed or told that dispatch would be sent immediately, yet no one has come, even though calls have been placed for days. Many do not require full evacuation, but basic medical attention and/or supplies. Many are completely immobile, and unable to access the limited relief sites or food drops.
--(frominterdictor's New Orleans Survival Blog -- full text here)
Those who heard or read the interview with Aaron Broussard cited in my last post have heard of a situation where someone's mother drowned, after calling for several days for rescue.
Thankfully, an official organization has recognized this situation and has established a web site to "Request A Rescue" for individuals of known location.
That organization is the United States Coast Guard.
I have never been so proud of my service. Semper Paratus, guys.