Take a look around you. Do you see a phone? A laptop? Some other electronic device? Chances are, the answer is yes, and inside those devices are lithium-ion batteries.
Lithium-ion batteries are the most common type of rechargeable battery and are often used in consumer electronics. Their ability to store a lot of energy in such a small amount of space is what makes them so popular.
Most people use devices powered by lithium-ion batteries every day, multiple times a day, without even knowing it. From using an electric toothbrush in the morning, to riding an E-bike home in the evening, lithium-ion batteries follow us around as we go about our day.
However, even though they are such a benefit to society, we have to be aware of the dangers they present.
Lithium-ion batteries are highly flammable because they release heat as they generate energy. That heat has the ability to catch the internal battery components on fire. But don’t worry – your phone won’t randomly go up in flames one day for no reason. Physical damage, electrical damage, exposure to water, exposure to extreme temperatures, and product defects are how lithium-ion battery fires start.
The good news is that these fires are very easily preventable if you know how to properly charge, maintain, and dispose of lithium ion-batteries and the products that contain them.
Only use the cord and charger that came with your device or one approved by the manufacturer.
Charge devices on a hard and flat surface like a table or the floor.
Unplug your device once it is fully charged.
Charge large items like e-bikes, scooters, and power tools outside.
When on an airplane, keep devices where you can see them while charging and tell a flight attendant if you notice any problems.
Stop using your device if it feels hot, starts to swell, smells strange, leaks, smokes, or makes popping or hissing sounds.
Following all of these safety tips will prevent lithium-ion fires from happening to you. In a study by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, there is an average of 5,000 fires that occur annually due to lithium-ion batteries. While they may only account for a small percentage of household fires total, they burn hot, are hard to extinguish, and can be lethal.
In addition to knowing how to prevent lithium-ion battery fires, you should also know how to properly dispose of them. The batteries themselves and the devices that include them should never be tossed in the household garbage or recycling bins, as fires can happen during transport or in landfills.
Make the effort to dispose of lithium-ion batteries properly. The Battery Network is a good place to start. You can select your battery type and enter your zip code to find collection points near you. Many stores that sell large quantities of lithium-ion battery devices, like Home Depot and Staples have their own recycling programs. You can also contact your local waste management, recycling center or municipality for disposal locations.
Lithium-ion batteries will continue to be an important part of our lives as they are in the items we use the most each day. Even though they are such a benefit to society, they can be very dangerous if one does not take the proper steps to charge, maintain, and dispose of them. It is crucial to know how to prevent lithium-ion battery fires to stay safe.
Preparedness can feel overwhelming. Between severe weather, home fires, power outages and medical emergencies, it’s easy to look at everything you should do and wonder where to even begin.
The good news? You don’t have to do it all at once.
This September, the American Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania Region is making preparedness a little easier. Throughout National Preparedness Month, we’ll share one simple action you can take to help yourself, your family and your community be a little more ready for whatever comes your way.
Some days will take just a few minutes, while others might take a little more planning. But every step you take adds up. So whether you’re just getting started or looking to refresh your emergency plans, we hope you’ll join us for this 30 Days of Preparedness challenge.
This September, the American Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania Region is breaking down preparedness topics to make them more manageable. Throughout National Preparedness Month, we’ll be sharing 30 Days of Preparedness—a daily dose of practical actions you can take to strengthen your readiness.
** Bonus Challenge: Play Preparedness BINGO!
Looking for an extra way to participate in National Preparedness Month? Download our Preparedness BINGO card and see how many preparedness activities you can complete throughout September.
Mark off squares as you go, challenge friends and family to play along and see if you can earn a BINGO before the month is over. Whether you complete one row or fill the entire card, every action you take helps make you, your family and your community more prepared.
Tap or click to open the image above, then right click to save the National Preparedness BINGO card to your device.
30 Days of Preparedness Activities
Tuesday, Sept. 1 – Download our Apps
Let’s start with something simple. Take a few minutes today to download our free Red Cross Emergency and First Aid apps. The Emergency app can send weather alerts, help you locate open Red Cross shelters and provide expert guidance for a variety of emergencies. The First Aid app offers easy-to-follow instructions for everyday injuries and unexpected situations. Download both apps and spend a few minutes exploring them.
Wednesday, Sept. 2 – Sign Up for Alerts
When it comes to emergencies, information is everything. Now that you’ve downloaded our apps, make sure you have a few other ways to receive alerts too. Wireless Emergency Alerts on your phone and a NOAA Weather Radio can help keep you informed when severe weather or other emergencies threaten your area.
Many counties and municipalities also offer their own alert systems. In Southeastern PA, these include Ready Bucks, Ready ChesCo, Delco Ready, Ready Montco and Ready Philadelphia. Take a few minutes today to see what’s available where you live and sign up if you haven’t already.
Download the American Red Cross Emergency App for free from your favorite app store. Photo by Alana Mauger/American Red Cross
Thursday, Sept. 3 – Know Your Risk
Not every community faces the same hazards. Some areas are more prone to flooding, while others may be at greater risk from severe storms or extreme heat. Today’s preparedness step is easy: spend a few minutes exploring FEMA’s National Risk Index interactive map. Understanding the risks where you live can help you make smarter decisions about planning and preparedness.
Friday, Sept. 4 – Learn How Choose or Use a Fire Extinguisher
A fire extinguisher can make a big difference during a small fire, but only if you know how to use it. If you don’t have a fire extinguisher on every level of your home, consider adding one. If you already have them, take a few minutes to review the instructions so you’re not trying to figure them out during an emergency. The U.S. Fire Administration has resources to get you started. Better yet, check with your local fire department to see if they offer demonstrations or training.
Saturday, Sept. 5 – Learn CPR
Each year, more than 350,000 people experience out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in the U.S. and only about 10% survive. But immediate CPR delivered by a bystander can double or even triple a person’s chance of survival. Whether you’re brand new to CPR or just need a refresher, today is a great day to learn. You can sign up for a class through the Red Cross or watch a hands-only CPR video online. Even a few minutes spent learning the basics can make a life-saving difference.
CPR stock photos by Roy Cox for the American Red Cross.
Sunday, Sept. 6 – Create an Escape Plan
If a home fire happened tonight, would everyone in your household know what to do? Take some time today to create a home fire escape plan. Make sure everyone knows two ways out of each room and where to meet once they’re safely outside. Don’t forget to include children and pets in your planning. Download our home fire escape plan template to get started.
Monday, Sept. 7 – Practice Your Escape Plan
Yesterday, you made a plan. Today, let’s put it into action. Gather everyone in your household and do a quick practice run. The goal is to be able to get out safely in two minutes or less. It may feel a little silly at first, but practicing now can help everyone react quickly when it matters most.
Bonus Task: After the drill, take a selfie of you and your family at your designated meeting spot. Share it on social media and challenge a friend to do the same.
A family maps our their two-minute home fire escape plan. Photo illustration by Brad Zerivitz/American Red Cross
Tuesday, Sep. 8 – Know the Difference Between a Watch and a Warning
You’ve probably seen weather alerts pop up on your phone before, but do you know exactly what they mean? A watch means conditions are favorable for severe weather and you should be prepared to take action. A warning means dangerous weather is happening or expected soon and it’s time to act. Take a few minutes today to review the different types of weather alerts and what they mean. Knowing the difference can help you make quicker, safer decisions when severe weather threatens.
Wednesday, Sept. 9 – Know Your Numbers
If you had to leave home quickly, would you have all the important information you need? Spend a few minutes gathering emergency contacts, doctors’ phone numbers, insurance information and any other important details your family may need during an emergency. FEMA’s family emergency plan template is a great place to start.
Thursday, Sept. 10 – Brush Up on Hurricane Preparedness
September is the busiest month of Atlantic hurricane season, making it a good time to review hurricane safety. Even though hurricanes don’t hit Southeastern Pennsylvania directly very often, their impacts can reach us through flooding, high winds and power outages. Take a few minutes today to review Red Cross hurricane safety information so you’ll know what to do before, during and after a storm.
Example of a solar and crank-powered radio with NOAA weather bands. Photo by Alana Mauger/American Red Cross
Friday, Sept. 11 – Find Your Emergency Radio
What would you do if your phone lost service and the power went out? Battery-powered and hand-crank radios remain one of the most dependable ways to receive emergency information during a disaster. If you already have one, find it and make sure it’s working. If not, consider adding one to your preparedness supplies.
Bonus Task: A NOAA Weather Radio can provide lifesaving information when other communication systems are unavailable. Find your local NOAA station here.
Saturday, Sept. 12 – Back Up Important Documents
Recovering from a disaster is much easier when important documents are easy to access. Take some time today to securely store copies of key documents such as insurance policies, driver’s licenses, medical records, banking information and housing documents. A password-protected cloud account or secure external drive can help keep them safe.
Sunday, Sept. 13 – Build Your Emergency Kits
Let’s talk emergency kits. Think about the things you and your family use every day to stay safe and comfortable. Water, food and medications are a great start, but don’t stop there. Consider items for children, pets and anyone with specific medical needs. These checklists from the Red Cross and FEMA can get you started. Remember, the goal isn’t to build the perfect kit overnight. Start with what you can and build from there.
Red Cross graphic showing examples of items to include in an emergency kit.
Monday, Sept. 14 – Don’t Forget Your Vehicle
Emergencies don’t always happen when you’re at home. Take a few minutes today to put together a basic emergency kit for your vehicle. Consider items like a flashlight, blanket, jumper cables, first aid supplies, charger, boots, flares and bottled water. Check out these lists from FEMA and AAA for inspiration.
Tuesday, Sept. 15 – Put Flashlights Where You’ll Need Them
Power outages never seem to happen at convenient times. Today, walk through your home and make sure flashlights are stored in easy-to-find locations. Check the batteries and add extras nearby if needed. The next time the lights go out, you’ll know exactly where to look.
Wednesday, Sept. 16 – Sign up for the Great ShakeOut
Did you know millions of people participate in the Great ShakeOut earthquake drill every year? Even though earthquakes aren’t common in our area, practicing what to do during unexpected emergencies is always a good idea. Take a minute today to register your family, workplace or school and plan to participate in this year’s drill. It’s free, easy and a great way to build preparedness habits.
ShakeOut graphic: Get Ready to ShakeOut. October 15, 2026. Register: ShakeOut.org
Thursday, Sept. 17 – Test Your Smoke Alarms
Here’s a task that takes less than five minutes and could save lives. Walk through your home and test every smoke alarm. Working smoke alarms can cut the risk of dying in a home fire by half. If you discover a missing or non-working alarm, make a plan to replace it as soon as possible.
If you need smoke alarms, the Red Cross may be able to help. Submit a request to have free smoke alarms installed by the Red Cross. Many fire departments also offer this service free of charge.
Friday, Sept. 18 – Turn Around, Don’t Drown
Flooding is the most common natural disaster in Pennsylvania, and flood-related deaths happen far too often because people underestimate moving water. Today’s reminder is simple: never drive, walk or swim through flooded areas. Take a few minutes to review our flood safety tips and remember the slogan: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.
Saturday, Sept. 19 – Build a First Aid Kit
You probably have bandages somewhere in the house, but do you have a complete first aid kit? Take some time today to check what supplies you already have and fill in any gaps. Include items for cuts, burns, sprains, allergies and common illnesses, along with any medications your household depends on. Review this checklist from the Red Cross.
Be Red Cross Ready First Aid Kit open. Photo by Dan Bittinger
Sunday, Sept. 20 – Check Your Fuel Level
Here’s a simple preparedness habit that can make a big difference. Take a look at your vehicle’s gas gauge. Is your tank at least half full? Keeping your vehicle fueled can give you more options if you ever need to evacuate or travel during an emergency. Consider making a half tank your personal rule of thumb.
Monday, Sept. 21 – Learn About Amateur Radio
In a world of smartphones and Wi-Fi, you might be surprised to learn that amateur radio (aka ham radio) still plays an important role during disasters. When traditional communication systems fail, licensed amateur radio operators often help emergency organizations stay connected.
The Philadelphia Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) directly supports the disaster work of the Red Cross, and many operators are also volunteers. Take a few minutes to read about the role of Red Cross amateur radio operations during Philadelphia’s summer of major sporting events, festivals and public gatherings.
Amateur radio operator Sam Rausch checks in to Net Control from Central Parkway Library during his first Red Cross summer events shift on June 14. Photo by Eileen Raul / American Red Cross
Tuesday, Sept. 22 –Get Familiar with Your Utilities
If a water pipe bursts or a storm damages utility lines, would everyone in your household know what to do?Take a few minutes today to locate your home’s water, gas and electrical shutoffs. Make sure the adults and older children in your household know where they are and when they should be used. It’s also a good idea to keep any tools needed to turn off water or gas nearby.Just remember – only shut off utilities if you suspect damage or are instructed to do so by local authorities. If the gas is turned off, it must be turned back on by a professional.
Wednesday, Sept. 23 – Donate Blood or Platelets
Preparedness isn’t just about protecting yourself. It’s also about helping others when they need it most. When emergencies happen, hospitals rely on blood that’s already on the shelves. If you’re eligible, consider scheduling a blood or platelet donation this month. If donating isn’t an option, you can still help by encouraging someone else to give. Visit RedCrossBlood.org or download our FREE Blood Donor app.
Local Red Crosser Heidi Dampman took a break during her recent deployment in Indiana to donate blood. Submitted photo
Thursday, Sept. 24 – Store Extra Water
Water is one of the most important things you’ll need in an emergency, but it’s easy to overlook when building your supplies. Today, take stock of the water you already have and consider whether it’s enough for your household. A good rule of thumb is to have at least one gallon per person per day. You’ll want enough for drinking, cooking and basic hygiene. If you’re just getting started, don’t worry about storing two weeks’ worth today. Start small and build your supply over time. Every bottle you set aside is one step closer to being prepared.
Bonus Task: Take a few minutes to review CDC guidance for making water safe in an emergency.
Friday, Sept. 25 – Explore Red Cross Programs for Kids
Preparedness isn’t just for adults; kids can learn important safety skills, too. And when kids understand what to do in an emergency, they often become preparedness champions for the whole family.
Take a few minutes to explore two free Red Cross programs designed especially for children. Prepare with Pedro helps young children learn how to stay safe during home fires, severe weather and other emergencies through engaging stories and activities with Pedro the cartoon penguin. In WHALE Tales, Longfellow the whale teaches children and families important water safety skills to help prevent drowning.
Red Cross graphic reads Alexa, enable Pedro’s Fire Challenge.
Saturday, Sept. 26 – Go on a Home Hazard Hunt
Here’s a preparedness activity the whole family can do together! Walk through your home and look for things that could become hazards during an emergency. Bookcases that aren’t secured, overloaded outlets, loose cords, cleaning supplies within reach of children and heavy items stored on high shelves are all good places to start. You might be surprised by what you find. Small fixes today can help prevent injuries and damage tomorrow.
Sunday, Sept. 27 – Check In with Your Neighbors
Preparedness is stronger when communities are connected. Think about the people who live around you. Do you know who might need extra help during an emergency, such as an older adult, someone with a disability or a family with young children? Do your neighbors know how to reach you if they need assistance?
You don’t need to organize a neighborhood emergency response team. Simply introducing yourself or exchanging contact information with a neighbor can make a big difference when severe weather, power outages or other emergencies occur.
Monday, Sept. 28 – Make a Plan for Your Pets
Our pets are family, so they should be part of our preparedness plans, too. Take a few minutes to think about what your pets would need if you had to leave home in a hurry. Do you know where you could take them if a shelter or hotel doesn’t allow animals? Are their ID tags and microchip information up to date? Do you have extra food, water, medications and supplies set aside? A little planning now can help keep your furry family members safe and reduce stress if an emergency happens.
Bonus Task: Download the free Red Cross Pet First Aid app.
Storm the cat sits in his carrier. Photo by Alana Mauger / American Red Cross
Tuesday, Sept. 29 – Volunteer with the Red Cross
Want to take preparedness one step further? More than 90 percent of the Red Cross disaster workforce is made up of volunteers. Whether you’re interested in supporting shelters, helping families after home fires or working behind the scenes, there’s a volunteer role for almost everyone. Take a few minutes today to explore volunteer opportunities and learn how you can make a difference in your community.
Wednesday, Sept. 30 – Spread the Word
We made it! Over the past 30 days, we’ve taken steps to become more prepared for emergencies. That’s something worth celebrating. Before the month ends, share a preparedness tip, resource or lesson you’ve learned with a friend, family member or neighbor. Preparedness works best when we do it together. A simple conversation today could help someone be ready tomorrow.
Keep the Momentum Going
If you’ve made it through all 30 days, you’ve taken meaningful steps toward becoming more prepared for emergencies.
The truth is, preparedness isn’t about checking boxes or building the perfect emergency kit overnight. It’s about creating habits that help us respond with confidence when the unexpected happens. Every alert you signed up for, every plan you reviewed and every conversation you had with family, friends or neighbors helps build a safer, more resilient community.
Red Cross graphic: Being a good neighbor means showing up when it matters most
Preparedness doesn’t stop at our front doors, either. When we know how to care for ourselves, we’re better equipped to help others. Whether it’s checking on a neighbor during a power outage, sharing preparedness tips with a friend or volunteering with the Red Cross, small actions can have a ripple effect throughout our communities.
That’s what resilience is all about: people looking out for one another before, during and after emergencies.
As National Preparedness Month comes to a close, we hope you’ll continue building on what you’ve started. Revisit your plans, update your supplies and keep the conversation going throughout the year.
A mother and her daughter walk towards a school building on a sunny day. Public domain photo by Caleb Oquendo.
It’s time to dig out your backpacks, gather your school supplies and fill up your calendars with bus schedules, sports practices and afterschool activities. For many families, the start of a new school year brings excitement, anticipation and a return to familiar routines. But amid the rush to prepare for the first day, there’s one important item that shouldn’t be overlooked: safety.
Whether your child is heading to class for the first time or is a senior in high school, the American Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania Region encourages families to make safety part of your back-to-school preparations.
For Younger Students
Teach young children important personal information. Make sure younger students know their phone number, home address, how to contact their parents at work, another trusted adult they can call and how to dial 911 in an emergency.
Remind them not to talk to strangers or accept rides, gifts or invitations from someone they don’t know.
Getting to and From School
Use sidewalks whenever possible and look both ways before crossing a street. Encourage children who walk to school to cross only at corners, obey crossing signals and stay within marked crosswalks. Remind them to never play or cross between parked cars.
Arrive at the bus stop early. Students who ride the bus to school should get to their assigned bus stop early and wait a safe distance from the curb. Teach kids to wait until the bus comes to a complete stop and only board when instructed by the driver. They should always cross in front of the bus and never behind it.
Always wear a bike helmet. If your student bikes to school, a properly fitted helmet is one of the best ways to prevent serious injuries. Remind bikers to ride on the right side of the road and follow the same direction as traffic.
Buckle Up Every Time. Whether you’re driving your student to school or they’re driving themselves, everyone in the vehicle should wear a seatbelt. Younger children should stay in a car seat or booster seat until the seat belt fits correctly — usually when they are between ages 8–12 and taller than 4 feet 9 inches. Children under 13 should always ride in the back seat.
Eliminate Distracted Driving. Remind teens (and yourselves) to avoid texting, calling, eating or drinking while driving to school.
Apps, Classes Enhance Readiness
Parents, teens and teachers are encouraged to download the free Red Cross First Aid and Emergency apps to give them access to first aid tips for common emergencies and real-time weather alerts. Find the apps by searching for the American Red Cross in your favorite app store or visiting redcross.org/apps.
For kids ages 11 and up or for adults caring for children, the Red Cross offers online and in-person babysitting and child care courses thatteach unique babysitting skills and best practices, as well as how to respond effectively in emergency situations.
The Red Cross also offers a variety of online skill courses, like Anaphylaxis and Epinephrine Auto-Injector Training, which helps teachers and caregivers recognize the signs severe allergic reactions and properly administer epinephrine when needed. Visit redcross.org/take-a-class for a full list of classes.
Drivers, Slow Down!
It is illegal in all 50 states to pass a school bus that is stopped to load or unload children. Follow these road rules:
Yellow flashing lights indicate the bus is getting ready to stop ─ slow down and be prepared to stop. Red flashing lights and an extended stop sign indicate the bus is stopped and children are getting on or off.
The area 10 feet around a school bus is the most dangerous for children; stop far enough back to allow them space to safely enter and exit the bus.
Motorists must stop when they are behind a bus, meeting a bus or approaching an intersection where a bus is stopped.
Motorists following or traveling alongside a school bus must also stop until the red lights have stopped flashing, the stop arm is withdrawn and all children have reached safety. This includes two and four-lane highways.
If physical barriers such as grassy medians, guide rails or concrete median barriers separate oncoming traffic from the bus, motorists in the opposing lanes may proceed without stopping. Do not proceed until all the children have reached a place of safety.
When people think of drowning, they often picture someone splashing wildly, yelling for help, and making a dramatic scene like in movies or television shows. The truth is much different. Most drowning incidents are quiet, happen in seconds, and can easily be mistaken for normal swimming or playing.
Knowing what drowning actually looks like could help you recognize an emergency before it’s too late.
American Red Cross graphic – False: It’s easy to tell if someone is drowning.
What Does Drowning Look Like?
A person who is drowning is focused on one thing: trying to breathe. Because their body is struggling to get enough air, they usually cannot call out for help or wave their arms.
Instead, someone who is drowning may:
Keep their head low in the water with their mouth barely above the surface.
Tilt their head back with their mouth open while gasping for air.
Have glassy or unfocused eyes.
Press their arms downward instead of waving.
Appear to be climbing an invisible ladder.
Stay in one place without making progress.
Become unusually quiet.
Drowning can happen in less than a minute, especially for young children. That’s why active supervision is so important whenever anyone is in or around water.
American Red Cross graphic – Myth: It’s obvious when someone is drowning. Reality: Drowning is often silent and can happen quickly.
Aquatic Distress Isn’t the Same as Drowning
Someone in aquatic distress is having trouble in the water but is still able to keep themselves afloat. They may be tired, caught in a current, or unable to swim back to safety. Because they still have some control, they can often wave, shout for help, or grab a flotation device.
A person who is drowning, however, has lost that ability. Their body instinctively uses every bit of energy trying to breathe, leaving them unable to call out or signal for help. Without immediate assistance, drowning can quickly become fatal.
Recognizing the difference allows you to respond sooner and potentially save a life.
American Red Cross graphic – How to spot a swimmer in trouble: 1. They aren’t making forward progress in the water. 2. Unable to move or tread water. 3. Are motionless and face down.
The Truth About “Dry Drowning”
You may have seen stories online about “dry drowning” or “secondary” (also called delayed) drowning. These terms can sound frightening, but medical experts do not recognize them as actual medical conditions.
After a water incident, it’s normal for someone to cough briefly if a small amount of water entered their airway. However, a child or adult who leaves the water feeling completely normal does not suddenly drown hours or days later.
If someone develops persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, chest pain, extreme fatigue, or other concerning symptoms after a water incident, they should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. While these situations are uncommon, they should always be taken seriously.
American Red Cross video – Is Dry Drowning Real? Facts vs. Fiction. Watch it on YouTube.
Drowning Prevention Starts Before Anyone Enters the Water
The American Red Cross recommends using multiple layers of protection whenever you’re around water.
Some simple ways to help prevent drowning include:
Always actively supervise children around water and stay within arm’s reach of inexperienced swimmers.
Designate a “Water Watcher” whose only job is to watch swimmers with no phones, reading, or other distractions.
Learn to swim and encourage family members to take age-appropriate swim lessons.
Wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket while boating or participating in water activities.
Learn CPR so you’re prepared to help during an emergency.
According to the American Red Cross, drowning is one of the leading causes of accidental death for children. Many incidents happen quickly and silently, even when other people are nearby.
American Red Cross graphic – If a child is missing, check the water first.
Every Second Matters
The biggest misconception about drowning is that you’ll always hear or see someone calling for help. In reality, drowning is often silent because a person simply cannot yell while struggling to breathe.
By learning the signs of drowning, understanding the difference between aquatic distress and drowning, and practicing simple water safety habits, you can help protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community.
The heat is on in Southeastern Pennsylvania, and many families head to local rivers, lakes, and coastal beaches for recreation. However, open water environments present unique, unpredictable conditions that demand extra caution. From the American Red Cross, here is a practical guide to staying safe when enjoying natural bodies of water.
Understand Natural Hazards
Unlike swimming pools, open water comes with shifting currents, deep drop-offs, and unpredictable weather. Being prepared starts with understanding the hidden risks beneath the surface:
Watch for hidden obstacles: Natural waters often contain submerged rocks, logs, debris, and sudden drop-offs. Always enter unknown waters feet first to avoid head or neck injuries.
Respect currents and waves: Strong undertows and fast-moving river currents can sweep away even experienced swimmers. If caught in an ocean rip current, remain calm, signal for help, and swim parallel to the shore until you escape the current before heading back to land.
Monitor the weather: Check forecasts before heading out and leave the water immediately at the first sign of dark clouds or thunder. Stay indoors for at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap.
How to Escape a Rip Current. 1. Relax your body and don’t fight the current, 2. Swim parallel to the shore until you are out of the current, 3. Turn and swim toward the shore, and 4. If you can’t make it to the shore, wave and call for help.
Respect Beach & Waterfront Warnings
Before jumping into open water, take time to observe your surroundings and read local safety postings:
Understand warning flags: Many ocean and lake beaches use color-coded flag systems. Green flags indicate low hazards, yellow flags warn of moderate currents or surf, red flags mean dangerous conditions, and double red flags mean the water is completely closed to the public.
Obey posted signage: Look for signs marking sudden drop-offs, underwater hazards, or areas designated exclusively for motorized watercraft.
Follow lifeguard instructions: Lifeguards have a clear view of water conditions and potential hazards. Always swim within sight of a lifeguard chair and follow any instructions immediately.
Swim as a Pair with a Lifeguard There. Someone should always be watching the water” and “Drowning can happen silently and quickly.
Smart Habits on the Shore
Establishing clear safety routines ensures everyone stays protected throughout the day:
Swim in designated areas: Always choose beaches, lakes, and parks with a lifeguard on duty, and swim with a buddy rather than alone.
Assign a dedicated Water Watcher: Designate a responsible adult to maintain undivided attention on swimmers, keeping cell phones and distractions away.
Wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets: Non-swimmers, inexperienced swimmers, and anyone boating, kayaking, or fishing should always wear a properly fitted life jacket.
Keep Kayaking Safe. Remember to wear a life jacket.
Know How to Respond
If an emergency arises, acting quickly and safely makes all the difference:
Reach or throw, don’t go: If someone is struggling in open water, throw them a flotation device or extend a long object like a pole. Entering fast or deep water after a drowning person can pull you under as well.
Alert lifeguards or call 911: Seek professional assistance immediately and ensure bystanders provide accurate location details to first responders.
Don’t do this! Never go in after someone who is in trouble in the water. Instead, reach out to them or throw them something that floats, such as a ring buoy.
Taking time to respect open water hazards keeps outdoor adventures enjoyable for everyone. Be sure to check out our local chapter’s upcoming swim classes and water safety certifications to prepare your family for the season ahead!
With many families across Southeastern Pennsylvania gearing up for summer trips to backyard pools, water parks, and coastal beaches, safety remains a top priority. However, many people drastically overestimate their abilities in the water. From the American Red Cross, this is a clear framework to help you and your family understand what it truly means to be “water competent”. Water competency means much more than just knowing how to swim. It’s a full combination of safety awareness, physical skills, and the ability to respond to an emergency.
Myth: Strong swimmers never drown. Reality: Unexpected water and medical conditions can cause anyone to drown.
1. Situational Awareness & Prevention
Drowning prevention starts a long time before you step into the water. It involves understanding your aquatic environment, recognizing hidden hazards like rip currents or sudden drop-offs, and establishing strict safety habits. Here are some tips to stay smart when on the water:
Swim with supervision: Always swim with a buddy and choose areas with a lifeguard on duty.
Designate a Water Watcher: Have a responsible adult focus entirely on supervising swimmers without cell phone distractions.
Use layers of protection: A four-sided fence, according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) is the best way to prevent unsupervised access around backyard pools.
Wear life jackets: Always wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket when boating, fishing, or if you are an inexperienced swimmer.
Don’t just pack it, wear your life jacket! Even if you’re a pro swimmer, it can keep you afloat during an emergency.
2. The Five Lifesaving Swim Elements
If you or a family member unexpectedly falls into deep water, being water competent means you have the physical capability to survive. The Red Cross defines this through a sequence of five critical skills that everyone should master:
Enter water that is over your head and successfully return to the surface.
Float or tread water for at least 1 minute to catch your breath and conserve energy.
Turn completely around in a 360-degree circle to orient yourself toward safety.
Swim at least 25 yards (the length of a standard pool) to find an exit.
Exit the water safely, even if there is no ladder available.
Master This Swimming Sequence: 1. Entering water over your head, 2. Treading or floating for 1 minute, 3. Rotating in a circle, 4. Swimming 25 yards, 5. Getting out of the water without a ladder.
3. Emergency Response & Safe Rescue
Drowning is often surprisingly fast and silent. Part of water competency is recognizing when someone is in trouble and knowing how to safely assist without becoming a victim yourself.
Reach or Throw, Don’t Go: Never jump in after a drowning person, as panic can cause them to pull you under. Instead, reach out with a pool noodle or throw a flotation device.
Call for help: Notify lifeguards or dial 911 immediately.
Learn CPR: Knowing bystander CPR can double or triple a drowning victim’s chance of survival while waiting for paramedics to arrive. The American Red Cross offers Hands-Only and full CPR classes for certification.
Reach or Throw, Don’t Go. If someone is in trouble, don’t jump in the water. Reach out to them or throw something that floats.
Keeping these fundamental practices in mind will ensure a secure and enjoyable environment for your loved ones, so don’t forget to check out our local chapter’s upcoming swim classes and safety certifications to get fully prepared! Visit the links below for more information.
With America’s 250th birthday around the corner, this year’s Fourth of July celebrations are shaping up to be bigger than ever. From parades to backyard barbecues to dazzling firework shows, there’s so much to look forward to. But with all that excitement, it’s important to keep safety in mind so the celebration stays fun for everyone.
Firework Safety
While the American Red Cross strongly recommends viewing professional firework displays instead of using them at home, if you choose to light your own, adhere to these precautions to have a happy and safe fourth!
Never light fireworks or sparklers while compromised by drugs or alcohol.
Make sure you follow the instructions on the package.
Keep fireworks stored in a cool, dry place.
Keep a source of water like a bucket of water to soak used fireworks in water for a few hours prior to throwing them away.
Make sure to keep fireworks and sparklers out of the hands of small children as they can get extremely hot (2000 – 3000°F)
Do This, NOT That. Keep water nearby in case fireworks start a fire. Don’t point fireworks at pets. Wear eye protection if you light a firework. Never try relighting a dud.
Staying Safe & Hydrated in the Heat
The Red Cross highly recommends you to drink at least one cup of water every 15-20 minutes even if you do not feel thirsty.
Wear sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30 and reapply every two hours.
Find a cool or shaded spot to spend the hottest part of the day.
Stay Hydrated. Drink a cup of water every 20 minutes.
Grilling & Food Safety
Keep grills at least 10 feet away from your home and any branches or deck railings.
Never use a grill, smoker, or charcoal inside even in the garage. Having these materials inside is a fire hazard and can cause carbon monoxide poisoning.
Use a food thermometer to prevent foodborne illnesses from meat. Make sure that perishable foods are not left in the summer heat for more than two hours and if it is 90°F or higher, food can only remain one hour in the sun.
Grilling near a tree could start a fire.
Following these rules will help your 4th of July celebration be as safe as it is fun!
EPA graphic – Protect your skin on “Don’t Fry Day.” Slip on a long-sleeved shirt or other clothing to protect your skin from the sun. Slop on sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Reapply at least every two hours. Slap on a broad-brimmed hat to protect the back of your neck and ears. Wrap on a pair of sunglasses. The kind that wraps around the sides of your face is best.
The Friday before Memorial Day is recognized as National Don’t Fry Day to raise awareness about the importance of protecting your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays—a major contributor to skin cancer and the most diagnosed cancer in the United States.
What is Sunburn?
Sunburn is an inflammation of the skin in response to UV radiation from the sun. Sunburns can range from mild pink, warm skin to blistering and dark red, but every sunburn is a sign of injury to the skin and should be taken seriously.
Skin Cancer: A Preventable Epidemic
Over 5 million cases of skin cancer are treated in the United States each year, meaning 1 in 5 American wills develop skin cancer during their life. Skin cancer can affect anyone—regardless of skin tone, age, or time of year. The good news is most cases are preventable by practicing consistent sun-safe habits.
Sun safety should begin early; children are especially vulnerable to UV damage. Teaching them how to protect their skin from an early age can set the tone for a lifetime of healthy choices.
Smart Sun Habits
Sun exposure is not just a sunny day concern—even on cloudy days or during the winter months UV rays can damage your skin.
Wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 15 and reapplying every two hours or after swimming.
Wearing protective clothing, including long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses.
Sit in the shade, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
Avoid tanning beds, which produce dangerous UV radiation.
Check your local UV index, which forecasts daily risk levels for UV exposure.
Sunburn First Aid
If you experience sunburn, move into the shade immediately, soothe your skin with a cool compress or water, and apply a gentle moisturizer. Make sure to stay hydrated with water and electrolytes, like sports drinks. If you begin developing a fever, chills, or feel woozy seek medical attention.
Protect Your Skin Every Day, All Year Long
Before you enjoy your day at the beach or your family barbecue this Memorial Day—and every day after—take a moment to protect your skin. Applying sunscreen and checking the local UV index every day are simple, but effective ways to prevent sunburn and lower your risk of developing skin cancer.
Your future self will thank you—for the glow, the protection, and the peace of mind.
When most people think of wildfires, they think of places like California not Pennsylvania. But even though wildfires are less common here, they can still happen, especially during dry conditions or drought. Our neighbors in New Jersey actually deal with wildfires multiple times a year, which shows that this is a regional issue, not just a distant one.
PA Fire Weather Awareness Week, led by the National Weather Service, focuses on helping people understand how wildfires start, spread, and most importantly how they can be prevented.
The Basics: What Causes a Fire?
Wildfires need three things to start: dry fuel (like grass or leaves), a heat source (like a spark or flame), and the right weather conditions. When it’s dry, windy, and there’s low humidity, fires can spread really quickly.
NWS graphic – 99% of all wildfires in Pennsylvania are caused by humans. Only YOU can prevent wildfires!
Human Caused Wildfires
In Pennsylvania, almost all wildfires are caused by people, not natural causes like lightning. Some of the most common causes include unattended campfires, burning trash, cigarettes, and sparks from equipment.
This means that most wildfires are actually preventable, which makes awareness super important.
Fire Weather Conditions & Alerts
Certain weather conditions make wildfires more likely. These include dry air, strong winds, and dry vegetation. When these conditions are present, the National Weather Service issues alerts like:
Fire Weather Watches (conditions could become dangerous)
Red Flag Warnings (high fire risk right now)
Special Weather Statements (elevated risk)
These warnings are meant to help people avoid risky activities, like burning outdoors.
NWS graphic – Fire Weather Watch: Critical fire weather conditions are possible but not imminent or occurring. Red Flag Warning: Critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now or will shortly. Be extremely careful with open flames.
Fire Danger Maps
During fire season, fire danger maps show how risky conditions are in different areas. Checking these before doing things like burning debris can help prevent accidents.
Prevention is Key
The biggest takeaway from Fire Weather Awareness Week is that small actions make a big difference. For example:
Never leave a fire unattended
Fully put out campfires
Avoid burning on dry or windy days
Dispose of cigarettes properly
In Pennsylvania, debris burning is actually the leading cause of wildfires, so being careful with this is especially important.
NWS graphic – Debris burn-caused fires account for nearly half of all wildfire occurrences within the Commonwealth.
Controlled Burns
Not all fires are bad. Experts sometimes use controlled burns (called prescribed burns) to safely remove extra vegetation. This helps prevent larger, more dangerous wildfires in the future.
Detection and Response
Pennsylvania also has systems in place to catch fires early, like fire towers and trained responders. Catching a fire early can make a huge difference in stopping it from spreading.
NWS graphic – Did you know? There are 48 fire towers across all of Pennsylvania. A fire tower is used to lookout for smoke and wildfires in the wilderness.
Conclusion
Wildfires might not be as common in Pennsylvania, but they’re still a real risk especially during dry seasons. The good news is that most of them are preventable.
Fire Weather Awareness Week is really about understanding that everyday actions like putting out a campfire or checking the weather can help protect entire communities.
Editor’s Note: Our fictional friends Jane and Zymir observe Pennsylvania Flood Awareness Week.
NOAA graphic – Do you really know how deep the water is? 12 inches of fast-moving water can carry away a small car. 6 inches of fast-moving water can knock over and carry away an adult. 18-24 inches of fast-moving water can carry away most large SUVs, vans and trucks.
By Robert Ambrose
Jane: Ah, I am tired about hearing about people losing everything to floods.
Zymir: But there are things they can do to mitigate problems.
Jane: Like what?
Zymir: Well, first recognize that the floods are super-destructive like you already know. Did you know that each year the US loses over five billion dollars to floods.
Jane: Staggering.
Zymir: Most deaths are preventable. People have to act smart not self-assured.
Jane: For example?
Zymir: Turn around, don’t drown. If a driver sees a road flooded out, how can he know it’s deep? He can’t. In fact, a small car can be pulled away by only 12 inches of running water.
Jane: Arrivederci.
Zymir: Exactly. Do a U-turn and get outta’ there. Just recently, I was reading some Red Cross materials and it said more. Leave low-lying areas because they are prone to flooding. Do not camp along rivers and streams when floods are threatening. We don’t think about it much but be “especially cautious” at night because floodwaters can rise and sneak up on you.
Jane: What else?
Zymir: Monitor the news. NOAA has updates as well.
Jane: Too bad we don’t have a crystal ball.
Zymir: What do you mean?
Jane: You know. To tell everyone how high the floodwater will go.
Zymir: My crystal ball is back-ordered. But we actually already have something much better. National Water Prediction Service. NWPS tells the public how high the estimated water level will rise during a flood, when the highest point of water will come and then recede, how long the flood will last, and how long the drought will last.
Jane: Flash flood this and that I hear sometimes.
Zymir: A flash flood emergency is stop lunch and run to the highest ground you can get to. A flash flood warning means avoid flooded areas because the situation is rapidly getting worse. A flood warning means watch out for possible flooded roadways and vacate homes and buildings targeted for flooding.
