RedCrossPhillyBlog

Category: Disaster Response

  • Red Cross Volunteers Participate in Emergency Communication Simulations

    Written by Sam Antenucci

    Imagine yourself in a disaster without power or internet. Finding out vital information would be next to impossible.  However, amateur radio – ‘Ham’ as its more commonly called—is a popular hobby that doubles as a way to send disaster messages without the need for internet. During a disaster when internet and power can go down, Ham radio acts as a lifeline in times of need.

    Seeing the potential of Ham Radios in disaster scenarios, John Weaver, a Red Cross Disaster and Mental Health volunteer, has been advocating and pushing for more awareness of Ham radios and the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) field day. Weaver says that “Field day is a chance to reach out to the community, practice for emergencies, enjoy informal contests, and most of all have fun!”

    john Weaver
    John (left) , Al (center) and Sean (right) from the Red Cross Lehigh Valley-Buck Chapter visited the 2018 Field Day sites. Using the Ham radio, they simulated emergency communication to an ARC volunteer in Texas.

    With more than 40,000 attendees including Red Cross volunteers, the ARRL field day is easily the largest gathering of radio amateurs in the United States. During the ARRL field day, enthusiasts set up transmission stations throughout the Nation to showcase the service opportunities that the radios hold.

    Ham radios work on a variety of frequencies for communications and can be set up anywhere in the world. Both Ham and non-Ham users can tune into their own receivers or radio scanners to listen to the broadcasts. Ham users utilize many frequency bands across the radio spectrum that have been given to them by the Federal Communications Commissions (FCC) for amateur use.

    Ham radios have often been utilized in the past by those wishing to aid in disaster services. For example, Amateur Radio Services helped New York City agencies keep in contact with one another during the 9/11 tragedy. Ham radio has also aided in rescues during Hurricane Katrina and helped in the disastrous flooding in Colorado in 2013.

    radio
    Volunteers participate in Ham Radio training at the 2018 Red Cross Disaster Institute

    If Ham radios are something you might want to get involved with, you need to acquire an Amateur Radio license from the FCC and your own equipment. The Red Cross offers Ham training and encourages you to participate in the 2019 ARRL field day on June 22nd and 23rd . Save the date and we’ll see you there!

  • Red Cross and Partners Gearing up for Peak of Hurricane Season

    Hurricane Maria 2017
    Barceloneta, Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. Red Cross volunteers distribute water, food and other basic necessities to families affected by Hurricane Maria. Photo by Sergio Rojas for The American Red Cross

    As the year nears the peak of the 2018 Atlantic Hurricane Season, the American Red Cross and its partners are ready. We are gearing up for the height, while hoping it will not be as active as last year.

    2017 was marked by historic hurricanes, wildfires and other crises, the American Red Cross was there for a record number of people whose lives were upended by major events.  Last fall was unprecedented in terms of the scope and scale of our mission delivery.  We provided food, water, reconnected families, and mobilized thousands of relief supplies, including comfort kits, blankets and cleanup kits to help rebuild lives.  Everything we do depends on the needs of the people that we serve and we could not be there without the generous support of our partners.  Thank you for bringing hope to those in need.

    • Toll Brothers
    • SKF USA
    • Duane Morris
    • PJM Interconnection
    • Vanguard
    • Tanner Industries
    • Ametek Foundation
    • Bentley Systems
    • Dietz & Watson

  • Red Cross Is Ready for 2018 Hurricane Season and You Can Be, Too

    Written By Sam Antenucci

    The  2018 Hurricane Season, June through November, has arrived. Last season we, as a country, saw how hurricanes impacted Texas, Florida, and Puerto Rico. Red Cross volunteers dispatched to four southern states to aid in the recovery by mobilizing resources and help residents impacted by the storms. For Hurricane Irma victims, the Red Cross provided over 550,000 overnight shelter stays, 1.5 million meals and snacks, and provide 52,600 health and mental health services! Similarly, with Hurricane Harvey, the Red Cross provided immediate financial assistance to more than 575,000 households, 4.5 million meals in Texas and Louisiana, provided 435,000 overnight shelters, and offered 127,000 mental health services to those affected.

    Hurricane Harvey 2017
    A Red Cross worker assesses Harvey damage and standing water levels in Texas

    However, even with all the great strides made in recovery, the devastation in these areas is still in effect going into the new hurricane season. For this reason, the American Red Cross wants to emphasize the importance of keeping you and your family safe this hurricane season.

    NOAA’s forecasters predict a 70-percent likelihood of 10 to 16 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), of which 5 to 9 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 1 to 4 major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher). An average hurricane season produces 12 named storms, of which 6 become hurricanes, including 3 major hurricanes.

    infrared goes-16 harvey
    Image: Infrared GOES-16 as Harvey hits Texas coast. CTSY: NOAA

    While the predictions are concerning, there are tips you and your loved ones can do to prepare for the season. Right before hurricane and tropical storm announcements, it is recommended that you stay up-to-date with your local news and officials, National Weather Service and Red Cross with changing conditions. It is also advised that families create evacuation plans with well-marked destinations and local emergency shelters listed. In addition, a fully stocked emergency kit can aid in keeping your family safe and prepared before the storm hits.

    During a hurricane, stay indoors! By avoiding any beaches, riverbanks, or contact with flood waters, you can help protect you and your family from any contaminated water and prevent being knocked over by fast-flowing waters. If caught on flooded roads, the Red Cross advises getting out of the car as quick as possible and move to higher grounds.

    After the storm has passed, make sure you and your loved ones register on Safe and Well, a website designed to help communicate with family during disasters if cellular communication is not an option. Just like before, keep listening to local news stations and/or weather radios for updates on the storm and instructions for returning home.

    With the new hurricane season quickly approaching, you and your family can be prepared! For more safety tips and resources, visit the Red Cross’s hurricane safety page and download the free Emergency app.

     

  • Volunteer Week: Highlighting Elizabeth Stinson’s Work During Disasters

    By: Elizabeth McLaren

    One phone call can determine the entire course of Red Cross DAT Responder Elizabeth Stinson’s day. As part of the Disaster Action Team (DAT) in Chester County, Pennsylvania, Stinson knows her circumstances can change in an instant, just as they did on November 16, 2017. News of a five-alarm fire with possible injuries and fatalities at the Barclay Friends Senior Center in West Chester jarred her awake.

    “I had fallen asleep on my couch,” Stinson said. “I got the call, got myself together and went.”

    Stinson was on the scene of the Barclay fire for over 12 hours, supporting other local emergency responders and Barclay facility staff who were transporting clients to nearby senior and assisted living centers, and reuniting clients with family members. The relief efforts on the ground involved many moving parts. Stinson saw first-hand how small details can matter the most. “It was all about compassionate care. One of the volunteers went out to buy applesauce so patients could take their medicine.”

    ES

    Of the experiences Stinson has witnessed during her 419 hours logged as a DAT Responder, and close to 1,300 hours on call, the Barclay fire continues to stick with her. “It was the most rewarding experience I had with the Red Cross. I had no idea going into it how large the fire was or the type of people impacted. When I saw the clientele, we wanted to just keep them warm.”

    Stinson helps with Red Cross workforce engagement on the days when she’s not involved with disaster response. She coordinates with Volunteer Services to introduce interested Red Cross volunteers to the many responsibilities of DAT Responders. Stinson helps with Red Cross initiatives such as the Home Fire Campaign and the Pillow Case Project, working towards community engagement for volunteers. She is also part of the committee organizing the Red Cross Disaster Institute offering classes to train DAT Responders. With her many efforts, she keeps one main approach in mind, both for herself and for potential volunteers.

    “There’s no typical day at the Red Cross. Every day is different. I think that’s what I like about it. Each day is a new and unique set of challenges. Sometimes it’s routine like updating data and records, but it’s always different.”

    Stinson believes that this variety adds value not only to her role, but also to her daily life. “Every experience is something to add to your toolkit. They’re all learning experiences. It’s [about] being a better human being. You get out there and you realize not everyone’s as fortunate as you.”

  • That’s a Wrap! March is Red Cross Month

    Image 2018-03-29 18_54_04

    “I request that during that month (March) our people rededicate themselves to the splendid aims and activities of the Red Cross.”–President Franklin D. Roosevelt, first Presidential Proclamation of March as Red Cross Month, 1943

    Each year the president of the United States proclaims March “Red Cross Month.” The Red Cross uses this opportunity to thank our supporters, increase public awareness and consideration of Red Cross’ mission and drive contributions.

    The City of Philadelphia kicked off the month by flying Red Cross flags around City Hall. They were a beautiful site to see.

    City Hall Flag.jpg

    While four back to back nor’easters were an unplanned surprise for March is Red Cross Month, the staff and volunteer of Red Cross Eastern PA were prepared.   We opened and supported more than half a dozen shelters and warming centers for more than 700 people affected by winter weather.

    Shelter 2.jpg

    Even with the bad weather and shelter openings, our volunteers continued to respond to the Red Cross’ most common emergency, home fires. Red Cross of Eastern PA volunteers responded to more than 100 emergencies and home fires during the month of March, assisting more than 450 people. We worked with the Philadelphia Fire Department to install smoke alarms and talk fire safety at three different neighborhoods where fatal fires occurred.

    install

    Daylight Saving Time began and people lost an hour of sleep by turning the clocks forward. The Red Cross encouraged people to “Turn and Test” – Turn the clocks and test your smoke alarm.

    T+T

    The Harlem Globetrotters named the Red Cross their “official charity” and we had the opportunity to raise funds and engage our volunteers at nearly 300 performances across the country. Our volunteers “passed the bucket” to collect donations from those attending games in Reading, Allentown, Philadelphia, and Wilkes-Barre.

    HGT

    The Lehigh Valley-Bucks chapter gave a sneak peak of the upcoming 2018 Cabaret and Cuisine: Back to the 80s. Doc Brown even showed up to encourage people to attend the event held Friday April 20th at Olympus Headquarters in Center Valley.

    Previe

    The Northeast chapter honored 19 local heroes at the NEPA Heroes celebration. The evening celebrated the prior year’s local heroes for using their First Aid, CPR, AED training and/or other actions to save lives or make Northeastern PA a better place to live and work.

    Heroes NEPA

    The Southeastern chapter hosted Philadelphia’s premier party and best black-tie charity gala, Red Ball. The evening was a big success with more than eleven hundred guests enjoying live entertainment, delicious delight from more than two dozen restaurants, a silent auction and much more at Lincoln Financial Field.

    Red Ball

    Red Cross Month wrapped up with Giving Day on March 28th. The Red Cross geared up for the big day, asking people to #help1family. Thousands responded and more than two million dollars was raised to help 28,000 families with urgent relief like food, shelter, and other essentials.

    giving day

    It certainly was a busy month and that’s how we know we are fulfilling the mission of the Red Cross.

  • Six Months After the Hurricanes, Local Volunteer Recounts Her Work for the Red Cross Call Center

    Written by Diane Coffey

    Last fall, a number of volunteers from the American Red Cross Eastern Pennsylvania Region supported an emergency call center located in Philadelphia. That call center took many calls from areas of the south affected by Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma, as well as Puerto Rico during Hurricane Maria. This is volunteer Diane Coffey’s story:

    Being the calm voice connecting with someone in the midst of a disaster feels like a hand taking hold with reassurance, ‘we got you – we’ll take care of you.’

    During one devastating week of the historic 2017 hurricane season, September 16 to September 21, a total of 184,139 hurricane related phone calls flooded the National American Red Cross emergency call number.  To help handle the volume overflow, the Red Cross set up Regional Volunteer Call Centers to assist Texas residents in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey and direct Florida and Puerto Rico residents to resources as Hurricane Irma and Maria hit. Regional Volunteer Call Centers answered 52,371 of the calls during this crisis week.

    These are more than just numbers with a ‘wow factor’, they represent the services remote volunteers from all over the country helped deliver to clients during real time disaster recovery operations. Hurricane survivors were connected to volunteers who would listen and provide information: shelter and food pantry locations, transportation, or partner organizations offering crisis cleanup and home repairs.

    As a Philadelphia Disaster Call Center volunteer, I never left my home. I used my personal cell phone to answer calls and used my home computer to access multiple Red Cross resource applications. At the end of my professional work day, I signed into the Red Cross Call Center System for a four-hour shift.

    One hurricane phone conversation will forever remind me why I volunteer with the American Red Cross. A Hurricane Irma survivor calling from Florida was running out of food.  As we talked, I learned the woman was visually impaired and did not have a computer.  Even if she had access, there was likely no power in her house.

    From a Red Cross hurricane resource listing, (updated and distributed to all volunteers in real time as new information became available), I identified three nearby emergency food pantries which she might be able to reach. But our call took place on Friday night and two of the pantries would not be open until Monday.  I was able to find the phone number for the third food bank, Second Harvest, and suggested that she call them.

    Despite the client’s visual impairment, she was able to slowly write down the information in hopes that her assistant could pick up the food. As we talked, she admitted that her roof was leaking rain water.  She needed a tarp. Again, based on her location I offered a Crisis Cleanup Hotline phone number for assistance.

    The length of this call undoubtedly exceeded the average time for a disaster related issue. In this case, I felt time could stand still until the client got the information she needed.

     

  • Red Cross Responds to Second Storm

    WEDNESDAY MARCH 7

    The second Nor’easter in less than a week struck Eastern Pennsylvania today, delivering another round of heavy, wet snow. The weight of that snow has led to additional power outages across the region. The Red Cross is working with local officials to determine if additional shelters will be required due to this new round of power outages.

    Last night about 100 people spent the night in Red Cross and partner shelters that remain open in the Poconos. The shelters are providing warm meals, a safe place to sleep and emotional support for those with immediate, disaster-caused needs. Hot showers and charging stations are also available. Current Red Cross shelters are located at:

    Monroe County: Stroudsburg High School, 1100 W. Main St., Stroudsburg, PA

    Pike County: Dingman Township V.F.D., 680 Log Tavern Rd., Milford, PA

    Anyone coming to a Red Cross shelter should bring essential items for each member of the family:

    • Prescriptions and emergency medications
    • Foods that meet unusual dietary requirements
    • Extra clothing, pillows, blankets, hygiene supplies and other comfort items
    • Supplies needed for children and infants, such as diapers, formula and toys
    • Special items for family members who are elderly or disabled
    • Chargers for any electronic devices you bring with you
    • Books, games and other ways to entertain your family and yourself
    • Food, crate, and other supplies to care for your pet

    In addition, the Red Cross is also supporting several partner-run shelters and daytime warming centers throughout all of Eastern Pennsylvania. For warming center locations near you, contact your municipality or county emergency management agency.

    Power outages are expected to last for at least a few more days in some places. The Red Cross has some important safety tips to keep you and your family safe as you wait for the lights to come back on.

    DRIVING IN WINTER WEATHER
    While the Red Cross encourages you to stay off the road if possible, if you have to drive in snow, follow these tips about how to drive safely during a winter storm and what to do if you become stuck in your vehicle:

    • Fill the vehicle’s gas tank and clean the lights and windows to help you see.
    • Pay attention to the weather forecast. Before you leave, let someone know where you are going, the route you plan to take, and when you expect to get there. If your car gets stuck, help can be sent along your predetermined route.
    • If you have to drive, make sure everyone has their seat belts on and give your full attention to the road. Avoid distractions such as cell phones.
    • Don’t follow other vehicles too closely. Sudden stops are difficult on snowy roadways.
    • Don’t use cruise control when driving in winter weather.
    • Don’t pass snow plows.
    • Know that ramps, bridges and overpasses will freeze before roadways.

    POWER OUTAGE

    • Use flash lights in the dark, not candles. Candles can start fires.
    • If you are using a generator be sure you understand the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning and how touse generators safely. Never use a generator indoors or in a garage. It must be kept outside in a well-ventilated area.
    • Turn off and unplug all unnecessary electrical equipment, including sensitive electronics.
    • Turn off or disconnect any appliances (like stoves), equipment or electronics you were using when the power went out. When power comes back on, surges or spikes can damage equipment.
    • Leave one light turned on so you’ll know when the power comes back on.

    SPACE HEATERS

    • If using a space heater powered by a generator, place the heater on a level, hard and nonflammable surface in the home.
    • Keep all potential sources of fuel like paper, clothing, bedding, curtains or rugs at least three feet away from space heaters, stoves, or fireplaces.
    • Portable heaters and fireplaces should never be left unattended. Turn off space heaters and make sure any embers in the fireplace are extinguished before leaving home.

     

    DOZENS OF BLOOD DRIVES CANCELED

    Inclement weather and power outages in March have caused blood drive cancelations that have resulted in thousands of units of blood and platelets to go uncollected throughout the Eastern U.S. including more than 1,000 units in our region.  Every day in Eastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey, the Red Cross needs to collect close to 800 units of blood and platelets—regardless of the weather—in order to meet the needs of patients. Donors of all blood types are encouraged to give as soon as they are able to help ensure hospitals have an adequate supply of blood and platelets. To find a donation site near you, visit redcrossblood.org, call 1-800-REDCROSS or download the free Blood Donor App.

     

  • Disaster Response Continues As Next Storm Looms

    Tuesday, March 6

    The impacts of last week’s Nor’easter continue to be felt across Eastern Pennsylvania even as another major winter is moving in. Heavy snow is expected region-wide on Wednesday, impacting travel and power restoration efforts.

    Tens of thousands are still without power across Eastern Pennsylvania. The American Red Cross Eastern Pennsylvania Region is in the midst of its largest response since Hurricane Sandy in October 2012. The Red Cross has staffed or supported more than a dozen shelters in Eastern PA since Friday evening.

    A couple of Red Cross shelters remain open, providing warm meals, a safe place to sleep and emotional support for those with immediate, disaster-caused needs. Hot showers and charging stations are also available. These shelters are expected to remain open through the upcoming winter storm. Current Red Cross shelters are located at:

    Monroe County: Stroudsburg High School, 1100 W. Main St., Stroudsburg, PA

    Pike County: Dingman Township V.F.D., 680 Log Tavern Rd., Milford, PA

    Anyone coming to a Red Cross shelter should bring essential items for each member of the family:

    • Prescriptions and emergency medications
    • Foods that meet unusual dietary requirements
    • Extra clothing, pillows, blankets, hygiene supplies and other comfort items
    • Supplies needed for children and infants, such as diapers, formula and toys
    • Special items for family members who are elderly or disabled
    • Chargers for any electronic devices you bring with you
    • Books, games and other ways to entertain your family and yourself
    • Food, crate, and other supplies to care for your pet

    In addition, the Red Cross is also supporting several partner-run shelters and daytime warming centers throughout the Poconos. For warming center locations near you, contact your municipality or county emergency management agency.

    Power outages are expected to last for at least a few more days in some places. And with the next winter storm moving in, the Red Cross has some important safety tips to keep you and your family safe. The Red Cross encourages everyone to have at least a two-week supply of emergency supplies at home. A complete list can be found here:  http://www.redcross.org/get-help/prepare-for-emergencies/be-red-cross-ready/get-a-kit

    DRIVING IN WINTER
    While the Red Cross encourages you to stay off the road if possible, if you have to drive in snow, follow these tips about how to drive safely during a winter storm and what to do if you become stuck in your vehicle:

    • Fill the vehicle’s gas tank and clean the lights and windows to help you see.
    • Pay attention to the weather forecast. Before you leave, let someone know where you are going, the route you plan to take, and when you expect to get there. If your car gets stuck, help can be sent along your predetermined route.
    • If you have to drive, make sure everyone has their seat belts on and give your full attention to the road. Avoid distractions such as cell phones.
    • Don’t follow other vehicles too closely. Sudden stops are difficult on snowy roadways.
    • Don’t use cruise control when driving in winter weather.
    • Don’t pass snow plows.
    • Know that ramps, bridges and overpasses will freeze before roadways.

    If you become stuck in the snow or icy conditions:

    • Stay with the car. Do not try to walk to safety.
    • Tie a brightly colored cloth (preferably red) to the antenna for rescuers to see.
    • Don’t run your engine and heater constantly to help avoid running out of gas. Don’t use things like lights or the radio without the engine running so the battery doesn’t conk out.
    • If you can, move your vehicle off the roadway. Stay with it – don’t abandon it. If you have to get out of your vehicle, use the side away from traffic.
    • Start the car and use the heater for about 10 minutes every hour. Keep the exhaust pipe clear so fumes won’t back up in the car.
    • Leave the overhead light on when the engine is running to help rescuers see the vehicle.
    • Keep one window slightly open – away from the blowing wind – to let in air.

    POWER OUTAGE

    • Use flash lights in the dark, not candles. Candles can start fires.
    • If you are using a generator be sure you understand the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning and how touse generators safely. Never use a generator indoors or in a garage. It must be kept outside in a well-ventilated area.
    • Turn off and unplug all unnecessary electrical equipment, including sensitive electronics.
    • Turn off or disconnect any appliances (like stoves), equipment or electronics you were using when the power went out. When power comes back on, surges or spikes can damage equipment.
    • Leave one light turned on so you’ll know when the power comes back on.

    SPACE HEATERS

    • If using a space heater powered by a generator, place the heater on a level, hard and nonflammable surface in the home.
    • Keep all potential sources of fuel like paper, clothing, bedding, curtains or rugs at least three feet away from space heaters, stoves, or fireplaces.
    • Portable heaters and fireplaces should never be left unattended. Turn off space heaters and make sure any embers in the fireplace are extinguished before leaving home.

    DOWNLOAD RED CROSS APPS

    People can download the Red Cross Emergency App for instant access to weather alerts for the upcoming winter storm. The Emergency app can also be used to locate an official Red Cross shelter near you. Expert medical guidance and a hospital locator are included in the First Aid App in case you encounter any mishaps. Both apps are available to download for free in app stores or at redcross.org/apps.

  • Red Cross Eastern PA Continues Largest Response Since Hurricane Sandy

    Shelters remain open for those still without power; new storm expected to move in

    Monday, March 5

    The impacts of last week’s Nor’easter continue to be felt across Eastern Pennsylvania, as another major winter storm is expected to arrive for midweek. Tens of thousands remain without power since Friday. The American Red Cross Eastern Pennsylvania Region is in the midst of its largest response since Hurricane Sandy in October 2012. The Red Cross has staffed or supported more than a dozen shelters in Eastern PA since Friday evening.

    Several Red Cross shelters still remain open, providing warm meals, a safe place to sleep and emotional support for those with immediate, disaster-caused needs. Hot showers and charging stations are also available. Current Red Cross shelters are located at:

    Monroe County: Stroudsburg High School, 1100 W. Main St., Stroudsburg, PA 

    Montgomery County: Pottstown YMCA, 724 N. Adams. St. Pottstown, PA

    Pike County: Dingman Township V.F.D., 680 Log Tavern Rd., Milford, PA

     Anyone coming to a Red Cross shelter should bring essential items for each member of the family:

    • Prescriptions and emergency medications
    • Foods that meet unusual dietary requirements
    • Extra clothing, pillows, blankets, hygiene supplies and other comfort items
    • Supplies needed for children and infants, such as diapers, formula and toys
    • Special items for family members who are elderly or disabled
    • Chargers for any electronic devices you bring with you
    • Books, games and other ways to entertain your family and yourself
    • Food, crate, and other supplies to care for your pet

     In addition, the Red Cross is also supporting several partner-run shelters and daytime warming centers throughout the Poconos. For warming center locations near you, contact your municipality or county emergency management agency.

     Power outages are expected to last for at least a few more days in some places. And with the next winter storm moving in, the Red Cross has some important safety tips to keep you and your family safe. The Red Cross encourages everyone to have at least a two-week supply of emergency supplies at home. A complete list can be found here:  http://www.redcross.org/get-help/prepare-for-emergencies/be-red-cross-ready/get-a-kit

    DRIVING IN WINTER
    While the Red Cross encourages you to stay off the road if possible, if you have to drive in snow, follow these tips about how to drive safely during a winter storm and what to do if you become stuck in your vehicle:

    • Fill the vehicle’s gas tank and clean the lights and windows to help you see.
    • Pay attention to the weather forecast. Before you leave, let someone know where you are going, the route you plan to take, and when you expect to get there. If your car gets stuck, help can be sent along your predetermined route.
    • If you have to drive, make sure everyone has their seat belts on and give your full attention to the road. Avoid distractions such as cell phones.
    • Don’t follow other vehicles too closely. Sudden stops are difficult on snowy roadways.
    • Don’t use cruise control when driving in winter weather.
    • Don’t pass snow plows.
    • Know that ramps, bridges and overpasses will freeze before roadways.

    If you become stuck in the snow or icy conditions:

    • Stay with the car. Do not try to walk to safety.
    • Tie a brightly colored cloth (preferably red) to the antenna for rescuers to see.
    • Don’t run your engine and heater constantly to help avoid running out of gas. Don’t use things like lights or the radio without the engine running so the battery doesn’t conk out.
    • If you can, move your vehicle off the roadway. Stay with it – don’t abandon it. If you have to get out of your vehicle, use the side away from traffic.
    • Start the car and use the heater for about 10 minutes every hour. Keep the exhaust pipe clear so fumes won’t back up in the car.
    • Leave the overhead light on when the engine is running to help rescuers see the vehicle.
    • Keep one window slightly open – away from the blowing wind – to let in air.

    POWER OUTAGE

    • Use flash lights in the dark, not candles. Candles can start fires.
    • If you are using a generator be sure you understand the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning and how touse generators safely. Never use a generator indoors or in a garage. It must be kept outside in a well-ventilated area.
    • Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. An unopened refrigerator will keep foods cold for about 4 hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full) if the door remains closed. If it looks like the power outage will continue beyond a day, prepare a cooler with ice for your freezer items.
    • Keep food in a dry, cool spot and keep it covered at all times.
    • Turn off and unplug all unnecessary electrical equipment, including sensitive electronics.
    • Turn off or disconnect any appliances (like stoves), equipment or electronics you were using when the power went out. When power comes back on, surges or spikes can damage equipment.
    • Leave one light turned on so you’ll know when the power comes back on.

    SPACE HEATERS

    • If using a space heater powered by a generator, place the heater on a level, hard and nonflammable surface in the home.
    • Keep all potential sources of fuel like paper, clothing, bedding, curtains or rugs at least three feet away from space heaters, stoves, or fireplaces.
    • Portable heaters and fireplaces should never be left unattended. Turn off space heaters and make sure any embers in the fireplace are extinguished before leaving home.
    • Keep children and pets away from space heaters.

    DOWNLOAD RED CROSS APPS

    People can download the Red Cross Emergency App for instant access to weather alerts for the upcoming winter storm. The Emergency app can also be used to locate an official Red Cross shelter near you. Expert medical guidance and a hospital locator are included in the First Aid App in case you encounter any mishaps. Both apps are available to download for free in app stores or at redcross.org/apps.

    HOW YOU CAN HELP

    You can help people affected by disasters like winter storms or countless other crises by making a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small. Donate by visiting http://www.redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or texting the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

  • Red Cross Nor’easter Update

    Sunday, March 4

    The impacts of Friday’s Nor’easter continue to be felt across Eastern Pennsylvania. More than 100,000 are still without power. In response, the American Red Cross has opened several shelters across the region.

    Monroe County: Shelter open at Stroudsburg High School, 1100 W. Main St., Stroudsburg, PA

     Montgomery County: Pottstown YMCA, 724 N. Adams. St. Pottstown, PA

     Pike County:    Shelter open at Dingman Township V.F.D., 680 Log Tavern Rd., Milford, PA

    Shelter open at Central Volunteer Fire Department, 574 Westcolang Rd., Hawley, PA

     In addition, the Red Cross is also supporting several partner-run shelters and warming centers, including several in Northampton County. Many other communities have also announced the opening of warming centers and charging stations for those without power. For warming center locations near you, contact your municipality or county emergency management agency.

     Power outages are expected to last for a couple of more days in some places. The Red Cross has these important safety tips to keep you and your family safe in the aftermath of the Nor’easter.

    POWER OUTAGE

    • Use flash lights in the dark, not candles. Candles can start fires.
    • If you are using a generator be sure you understand the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning and how to use generators safely. Never use a generator indoors or in a garage. It must be kept outside in a well-ventilated area.
    • Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. An unopened refrigerator will keep foods cold for about 4 hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full) if the door remains closed. If it looks like the power outage will continue beyond a day, prepare a cooler with ice for your freezer items.
    • Keep food in a dry, cool spot and keep it covered at all times.
    • Turn off and unplug all unnecessary electrical equipment, including sensitive electronics.
    • Turn off or disconnect any appliances (like stoves), equipment or electronics you were using when the power went out. When power comes back on, surges or spikes can damage equipment.
    • Leave one light turned on so you’ll know when the power comes back on.

    SPACE HEATERS

    • If using a space heater powered by a generator, place the heater on a level, hard and nonflammable surface in the home.
    • Keep all potential sources of fuel like paper, clothing, bedding, curtains or rugs at least three feet away from space heaters, stoves, or fireplaces.
    • Portable heaters and fireplaces should never be left unattended. Turn off space heaters and make sure any embers in the fireplace are extinguished before leaving home.
    • Keep children and pets away from space heaters.