– The temperatures and excitement levels during the Fourth of July weekend are high but so are the risks of fireworks injuries. The American Red Cross Southwestern Pennsylvania Chapter wants to ensure the safety of families by being prepared in case of emergencies this holiday weekend.

                        Children under age 15 suffered 40 percent of the 9,600 injuries from fireworks devices, according to a 2004 report compiled by the U.S. Fire Administration.  The report also said that firecrackers, sparklers and rockets are the leading contributors to these injuries.

“We often see sparklers as harmless but need to remember the danger of them,” said Mike Adametz, Director of Emergency Preparedness American Red Cross Southwestern Pennsylvania Chapter.  “It’s important that parents monitor and use caution with their children if they choose to handle these items.”

The report also says the best and safest way to enjoy fireworks is to visit public fireworks displays put on by professionals.

“Injuries occur most frequently when consumers try to use them. But public fireworks displays are the safest alternative for anyone because they are established under controlled settings and regulations and are performed by professionals,” said Adametz.

For families who may be enjoying hiking and camping trips this holiday weekend, the Red Cross recommends making sure that you have the necessary supplies for the trip by bringing important items such as a cell phone, map and first aid kit.

Good Housekeeping recently rated the American Red Cross Family First Aid Kit as number 1 out of the kits tested noting that “it was the most organized and came with an easy-to-read CPR and first-aid manual, bandages, aspirin, ice packs and a disposable thermometer.”

If the holiday weekend will be spent near a pool, lake or river, the following water safety suggestions apply:

·         Never swim alone

·         Have someone who is trained in CPR supervising the swimming area if a lifeguard is unavailable

·         Always keep basic lifesaving equipment near the swimming area and know how to use it (pole, rope, personal flotation device, etc.)

·         Keep a cell phone or install a phone near the area in case of emergencies and have the local emergency contact numbers posted by it

“Unfortunately, accidents can happen at any time,” said Adametz.  “Without taking the fun out of the holiday weekend, being prepared in case of emergencies will allow parents and guardians to relax and enjoy the day.”

Talking to family members about being safe while they enjoy their fun this summer can help make for a much more relaxing season for everyone involved.  While the above suggestions can help prevent emergencies, it is important to know what to do if a situation arises.  By learning Red Cross CPR and first aid, all caregivers, including grandparents, older siblings and babysitters would have the necessary lifesaving skills.

For more information on safe holiday suggestions or first aid or CPR training schedules, contact the American Red Cross Southwestern Pennsylvania Chapter at 412-263-3100 or visit online at www.swpa.redcross.org.

PITTSBURGH, PA – With a flash flood watch issued until tomorrow evening by the National Weather Service, the American Red Cross Southwestern Pennsylvania Chapter wants to ensure residents within the watch area are prepared for a flood emergency.

“The best advice the Red Cross can give to residents in flood-prone areas is to be prepared by taking precautionary steps to protect their homes and families,” said Mike Adametz, Director of Emergency Preparedness at the Red Cross. 

The Red Cross offers the following guidelines to prepare for flooding:

KNOW YOUR AREA:  Residents should find out if their area is prone to flooding. If it has been raining hard for several hours, or steadily raining for several days, be alert to the possibility of a flood.

KNOW THE WARNINGS:  Listening closely to weather reports and warnings can help you to be better prepared. 

·        A watch means a flood is possible in your area.   If a flood watch is issued in your area, move furniture and valuables to the higher floors of your home and fill your car’s gas tank, in case an evacuation notice is issued.

·        A warning means flooding is already occurring or will soon occur.  If a flood warning is issued, listen closely to weather reports for updates and evacuation notices.  If an evacuation notice is issued, do so as soon as possible.

·        Flash flood watches and warnings mean you should be ready to evacuate on a moment’s notice.  If you think flooding has already started, leave immediately.  Move to higher ground away from rivers, streams, creeks and storm drains.  Do not drive around barricades as they indicate potentially damaging and dangerous areas. 

The Red Cross also recommends assembling a flood safety kit in case you would need to evacuate quickly.  The kit should contain:

-         First aid kit

-         Canned food, can opener, and bottled water

-         Battery-powered radio

-         High-powered flashlight and extra batteries

-         Boots and rubber gloves

-         A change of clothes

-         Blankets

Another step in being prepared is creating a flood evacuation or escape plan.  Decide ahead of time several places you could go if you are told to evacuate such as a friend or relative’s home in another town, a high-ground hotel or a shelter.

All family members should know how to turn off gas, electricity and water and how to properly call 911, the police and fire department.

If you are affected by flooding and need help, please call the American Red Cross toll-free, 24-hours a day at 1-888-217-9599.

PITTSBURGH, PA –  The American Red Cross Southwestern Pennsylvania Chapter will present a plaque to honor the achievements gained through the partnership with the Greene County Corner Cupboard Food Bank, Wednesday, June 28, at 5 p.m. at the food bank (511 Rolling Meadows Road, Waynesburg, PA 15370).

In response to a call for help in response to Hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Wilma last summer and fall, the Food Bank offered the Red Cross use of its facilities to host three different disaster “boot camps” throughout September-November.  A total of 16 volunteers were trained and ready to respond.

Also as a result of the partnership signed on Dec. 8, 2004, the Food Bank hosts Red Cross Disaster Action Team meetings quarterly; opens its doors for Red Cross volunteer caseworkers to meet with victims of local disasters such as fires; and remains on “standby” with the Red Cross in case of disasters to assist with bulk distribution of food and supplies to the affected areas as well as being an approved evacuation shelter.

An integral player in community disaster relief, the American Red Cross is at the scene when emergencies occur---from fires to floods and from individuals to entire communities---providing for immediate needs such as food, shelter and clothing.  During times of large-scale disasters, the Corner Cupboard Food Bank will work with the Red Cross to provide mass food distribution and will be a referral source during smaller, single-family disasters.  The teaming together furthers both of the organizations’ missions and will help provide the community with a basic human need in times of emergency.

WASHINGTON, PA – Due to an overwhelming response to our May instructor training, the local Red Cross is offering another opportunity to be better prepared to respond to emergencies.  Does your company have CPR or First Aid training requirements?  Do your employees work with children, elderly or special-needs clients?  If so, sending a representative to be trained in American Red Cross Instructor Training can help your company be more prepared for the work you do. The trained representative can then train their fellow employees and certify them in the following courses:

• Adult CPR with AED
• Infant and Child CPR with AED
• First Aid Basics
• Workplace Training modules:
• Ergonomics
• Slips, trips and falls
• Back injury prevention
• Workplace violence awareness
• Managing stress
• Your heart matters

The Washington Instructor Training will be 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., June 13, 15 and 19 at the chapter branch location, 524 East Maiden St., Washington, PA 15301.  All three days must be attended for certification.  Registration is required; cost is $225. Call 724-222-4750 or go online to www.swpa.redcross.org and click on “Register for a Class.” All courses contain the new version and current standards and protocols for CPR and First Aid.

Participants in the Red Cross Instructor Training can become an authorized provider of the Red Cross health and safety courses.  Authorized providers enjoy the flexibility and convenience of being able to offer courses whenever and wherever they want. 

Businesses can benefit from an authorized provider from their company by:

• Addressing regulatory issues specific to your business or organization
• Cost-effectively reaching large groups
• Creating in-house experts familiar with your emergency procedures and equipment
• Enjoying direct technical support from your local Red Cross chapter
• Working with America’s best instructor training and support system

The comprehensive, flexible programs of the Red Cross training helps employees stay prepared for virtually any life-threatening situation and meets OSHA First Aid guidelines.