Red Cross Can Help You Be Prepared for the Next Emergency

Posted on April 18, 2013 by American Red Cross Northeast Wisconsin Chapter

Take A Class, Download First Aid App To Help Save Life 

Recent events in Boston and Texas emphasize the importance of knowing what to do when an emergency occurs. Evan as first responders rushed into help at both scenes, much of the initial care to the injured was provided by friends, neighbors and bystanders who were trained in CPR and first aid. Whether the emergency is community-wide and involves numerous injuries, or involves a single individual being hurt at home, it is vital that someone close by knows what to do when such an emergency occurs.

“Getting yourself and your family more prepared for disasters can bring peace of mind during trying times and can help save someone’s life during future emergencies,” said Judy Gregory, Disaster Services Director. “Taking an action like downloading our first aid, taking a first aid class or building a disaster supply kit can help people feel empowered to act when disaster strikes.

The American Red Cross has numerous ways people can get the information and training they need to be able to help when an emergency occurs and urges everyone to be better prepared by taking advantage of training and mobile apps available to teach them what to do when someone needs assistance.

FIRST AID/CPR CLASSES The Red Cross has classes available that emphasize hands-on-learning of First Aid, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). The courses teach someone the skills they need to help save a life. Participants learn how to respond to common first aid emergencies, how to respond to cardiac and breathing emergencies in adults and how to use AEDs. There are also options available to learn how to help infants and children. People canregister for these classes at redcross.org/takeaclass or by calling 1-800-REDCROSS.

ONLINE TRAINING Family and household members can learn how to prevent and respond to emergencies by taking the new Red Cross Family First Aid and CPR online,The cost is $30. Family First Aid and CPR teaches you how to:

  • Identify signals of medical emergencies
  • Give appropriate care for common first aid emergencies.
  • Know when to call 9-1-1 and what to do until help arrives for critical cardiac and first aid emergencies.

This course is for people who do not require OSHA-compliant certification. It takes about 2 hours to go through the Adult CPR and First Aid content. Pediatric modules are also available.

DOWNLOAD FIRST AID APP People can also download the free Red Cross First Aid App for iPhone and Android mobile devices which puts simple lifesaving information at someone’s fingertips. Features include step-by-step instructions to guide someone through everyday first aid scenarios, full integration with 9-1-1 to call emergency services from the app and preloaded content to have instant access to information even without device reception or internet connectivity. The app is available in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store by searching for American Red Cross.

Filed under: Preparedness | Tagged: , , , , | 1 Comment »

American Red Cross Urges Residents to Prepare for Severe Weather

Posted on April 15, 2013 by American Red Cross Northeast Wisconsin Chapter

Download free Tornado App to get ready for rain, strong winds and possible tornadoes

The American Red Cross is urging residents in Northeast Wisconsin to make sure households, schools and business are prepared for possible severe weather including rain, strong winds and possible tornados.

“Listen to weather alerts and designate a safe space where people can gather for the duration of the storm,” said Judy Gregory, Regional Manager, Disaster Services.  “The area should be a basement, storm cellar or an interior room on the lowest floor away from windows.”

Do this one simple step in being prepared - download one of the many Red Cross Apps to your phone!

Do this one simple step in being prepared – download one of the many Red Cross Apps to your phone!

Download Tornado App

The American Red Cross Tornado App is available in English or Spanish and gives iPhone, iPad and Android smart phone and tablet users instant access to local and real-time information, so they know what to do before, during and after a tornado.

The free app includes a high-pitched siren and “tornado warning!” alert that signals when a NOAA tornado warning has been issued. This feature allows users to make critical decisions and to take actions to help keep themselves and their loved ones safe even in the middle of the night. An “all clear!” alert lets users know when a tornado warning has expired or has been cancelled.

Other features of the app include:

  • Location-based NOAA tornado, severe thunderstorm and flood watch and warning alerts;
  • One touch “I’m safe” messaging that allows users to broadcast reassurance to family and friends via social media outlets that they are out of harm’s way;
  • Preloaded content that gives users instant access to critical action steps, even without mobile connectivity;
  • Toolkit with flashlight, strobe light and audible alarm; and
  • Locations of open Red Cross shelters.

“If a tornado is threatening your area, listen for alerts and warnings, grab your emergency preparedness kit and head to your designated safe area,” Gregory added. “Be prepared to evacuate if necessary.”

The Tornado App, along with other apps, can be found in the Apply App Store and the Google Play Store for Android by searching for American Red Cross or by going to redcross.org/mobileapps. People can go to redcross.org/tornado for more safety tips.

Filed under: Disaster Services, Preparedness | Tagged: , , , , | Leave a Comment »

Prepare for Spring Storms…… Or Winter Again

Posted on April 9, 2013 by American Red Cross Northeast Wisconsin Chapter

Tornado, Flood, and Thunderstorm Season nears.

Be Red Cross Ready - Last year, hurricanes battered the East Coast in less than three months prompting the Red Cross to mount its largest and most expensive response to a natural disaster in the organization’s history.

Thousands of people turned to the media for information on the storms’ paths and where to go for help. With predictions of another busy storm season on the horizon, the American Red Cross invites you to join us for a Preparedness Seminar.

Do this one simple step in being prepared - download one of the many Red Cross Apps to your phone!

Do this one simple step in being prepared – download one of the many Red Cross Apps to your phone!

Who:  Free to the public

What: Be Red Cross Ready– join the American Red Cross for a presentation about preparedness; learn what you can do to be prepared for the upcoming storm season.

When: Tuesday, April 16, 2013

Time: 6:00-7:00 pm    

Where: Ripon Public Library

Silver Creek Room

120 Jefferson Street

Ripon, WI 54971

Why: Learn -

  • How you can help be better prepare for the Spring Storms.
  • How the Red Cross helps people following a disaster.
  • How you can tap into Red Cross resource.
  • How you can become a Red Cross volunteer.

For more information on this presentation, or other information on preparedness, please contact Lisa Stanchfield at (920)922-3450, or Lisa.Stanchfield@redcross.org.

Filed under: Preparedness | Tagged: , , , , , , | 1 Comment »

Be Prepared – Get the Tornado App

Posted on March 4, 2013 by American Red Cross Northeast Wisconsin Chapter

New ImageGet your family and home ready for a tornado with the official Tornado App from the American Red Cross. The Tornado app puts everything you need to know prepare for a tornado – and all that comes with it – in the palm of your hand. With interactive quizzes and simple step-by-step advice it’s never been easier to be ready.

You can download the app directly from the iTunes or Google Play app stores.

FEATURES: 

  • Simple step-by-step instructions to help you know what-to-do even if the cell towers and TVs are down. Prioritized actions for before, during, and after requires no mobile connectivity.
  • Audible siren that automatically goes off even if app is closed when NOAA issues a TORNADO WARNING helping to reduce the chance of sleeping through an actual warning.
  • Push notification sent when a WARNING expires – especially important if power goes out while you or your family are in your safe room.
  • Help distant friends and family in tornado alley with ability to receive tornado watch and warning alerts based on their location from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
  • Red Cross location-based open shelters map for when you need it most.
  • Be ready should a tornado hit by learning how to assemble an emergency kit for your family in the event of power outage or evacuation.
  • Reduce your household’s stress and anxiety should a tornado hit by learning to make and practice an emergency plan.
  • Preloaded content means you have instant access to all safety information at anytime, even without reception or an Internet connection.
  • Interactive quizzes allow you to earn badges that you can share with your friends and show off your tornado knowledge.
  • Know how many tornadoes have occurred in your area.
  • Know the difference between a warning and alert.
  • Learn how to deal with food and water impacted by floods and power outages.
  • Simply let friends/family know you’re safe with customizable “I’m Safe” notification sharable thru social media, text and email.
  • Let others know where you are with the Toolkit’s stobe light, flashlight and audible alert functions

Filed under: Preparedness | Tagged: , , , , , , | 1 Comment »

During Red Cross Month, Honor the Everyday Heroes Who Help Our Communities

Posted on March 1, 2013 by American Red Cross Northeast Wisconsin Chapter

During Red Cross Month, the American Red Cross recognizes the nation’s Everyday Heroes who give of themselves and in some way help their community.

 “Please remember those who help all of us either down the street or across the country by giving their time to help their neighbor,” said Steve Hansen, Chapter Executive. “We want to thank our heroes during Red Cross Month – our volunteers, blood donors, class takers and financial supporters who help us assist those in need.”

March was first proclaimed as Red Cross Month 70 years ago by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Since 1943, every president, including President Obama, has designated March as Red Cross Month. The American Red Cross is synonymous with helping people, and has been doing so for more than 130 years.

The Red Cross responds to nearly 70,000 disasters a year in this country, providing shelter, food, emotional support and other necessities to those affected. It provides 24-hour support to members of the military, Veterans and their families – in war zones, military hospitals and on military installations around the world; collects and distributes about 40 percent of the nation’s blood supply and trains more than seven million people in first aid, water safety and other life-saving skills every year.

 In just one fiscal year, our local Chapter responded to 171 local emergencies with trained Red Cross responders who are able to respond to disaster not just down the street but across the country. We assisted more than a 1,000 military members, their families and Veterans with pre and post-deployment briefings and emergency communications. We also brighten the holiday season for local Veterans and active duty personnel with our Holiday Mail for Heroes program. Through our Preparedness, Health & Safety services we trained thousands of people in both classroom and online courses in life-saving skills to disaster education. Throughout our area, people also rolled-up their sleeves to donate the gift of life. Throughout the state, we provide a safe and reliable blood supply for more than 40 hospitals and clinics.

“Red Cross Month is a great time for people to become part of the Red Cross and there are many different ways to do it. You can develop a preparedness plan for your household, become a Red Cross volunteer, give blood, or take a Red Cross class, just to name a few,” concluded Hansen.

The Red Cross is not a government agency and relies on donations of time, money and blood to do its work. An average of 91 cents of every dollar given to the Red Cross is invested into humanitarian services.

The Northeast Wisconsin Chapter has a number of activities planned for Red Cross Month, including:

  • Governor’s State of Wisconsin Proclamation to be announced.
  • All Disaster Classes are free and open to the public:
    • International Humanitarian Law course explores global relationships via the Geneva Conventions, rules of war, etc. (Saturday, March 9, 9:00a.m. – 1:00p.m.) Green Bay

Disaster Overview course provides new and perspective volunteers an overview of Disaster Services and previews involvement opportunities.

      • Waupaca, WI Tuesday, March 12 (6:00p.m. – 9:30p.m.)
      • Iron Mountain, MI – date/time to be announced
  • Fundamentals of Disaster Mental Health & Psychological First Aid, Saturday, April 5, In partnership with the University of Wisconsin –Oshkosh Department of Professional Counseling.
  • Boys & Girls Club (Fond du Lac) Family Preparedness seminar, 6:00p.m.
  • Participant at 46th Annual Governors Conference on Emergency Management and Homeland Security (March 7& 8)
  • Tornado App roll-out: Starting March 4th, a free downloadable App will provide preparedness tips, define/provide watches & warning tips and more
  • Flags over Fond du Lac: on the Johnson Street Bridge
  • Blood Drives are hosted at various locations and at the Blood Collection Center at 2131 Deckner Avenue, Green Bay which is open five days a week. To find your nearest local blood drive visit www.redcrossblood.org.
  • Introducing Babysitting Basics a new web-based course with video and interactive activities geared toward children 11 – 15 years of age. This is a compliment to the traditional classroom training course.
  • Life-saving Courses like CPR/AED, first aid, babysitting, etc are being held in multiple cities and locations. To find ALL classes & to register go to www.redcross.org/TakeAClass
  • Nursing Assistant Training: There is no greater calling than to provide care and compassion to those in need. Registration is now open for classes in Green Bay, Oshkosh and Waupaca. For more information visit www.redcross.org/newisconsin, call 800-727-0477 or send an email to Paulene.Kipke@redcross.org.

Our Services to Armed Forces support Yellow Ribbon Events for our enlisted military members and their families with “Get to Know Us Before You Need Us” presentations to reintegration services and/or information booths.

  • March 2, MI National Guard 1432nd Engineering Company, Kingsford, Michigan
  • March 9, WI National Guard 372nd Engineering Company, Milwaukee
  • March 10, WI National Guard 1157th Engineering Company, Appleton
  • March 21  WI State Warrior Summit Exhibitor, Milwaukee
  • March 24 WI National Guard 121st Field Artillery & 97th Agri-Development Team, Elkhart Lake, WI
  • Heroes Musicales are a collection of musicians giving of their talent with concerts in Wild Rose, WI (Saturday, April 20) All three concerts were sold-out last year so order tickets early.
  • When filing Wisconsin State Taxes, this is the second year you can use the donation ‘check-off’ to give directly to American Red Cross disaster relief
  • Dine for Disaster participants are being recruited! Eateries, of all types, are being recruited so we can all eat/drink and socialize at their locations on May 16th with a percentage of sales raised donated to local disaster relief.

Northeast WI Chapter

The American Red Cross of Northeast Wisconsin Chapter serves 20 counties, including two in Michigan, with a mission to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. To learn more about Red Cross programs, volunteer opportunities, and how you can help, contact the Chapter at 920-231-3590 or visit redcross.org/newisconsin or via social media.

Filed under: Disaster Services, Giving Blood, Health and Safety, Northeast WI Region, Preparedness | Tagged: , , , , , , | Leave a Comment »

MLK National Day of Service 2013

Posted on February 4, 2013 by American Red Cross Northeast Wisconsin Chapter
FDL Group - 2

One of our teams in the Fond du Lac area.

American Red Cross staff and volunteers, fire department, Girl Scouts, Fresh Start representatives honored the service of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by canvassing neighborhoods to provide tips on fire safety and prevention, and to remind residents that home fires are one disaster that can be prevented.

During the MLK National Day of Service volunteers talked with people at home about ways to heat and cook safely, the value of smoke alarms and the need to create and practice a household fire escape plan. Fire safety and prevention door hangers in English and in Spanish were provided to all homes volunteers visited, and left for neighbors who were not at home.

We distributed 12,500 door hangers to 12,500 houses in 11 different communities across Northeast Wisconsin. Those communities included: Appleton, Fond du Lac, Grand Chute, Green Bay, Iron Mountain, Manitowoc, Menasha, North Fond du Lac , Oshkosh, Sheboygan, and Waupaca

We want to thank our volunteers, participating fire departments, girl scouts, Fresh Start representatives, and the schools for helping distribute these very important safety tips, that could save lives!

Distributing in Sheboygan!

Distributing in Sheboygan!

Filed under: Preparedness | Tagged: , , , , | Leave a Comment »

CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING – Do You Know What to Do?

Posted on January 28, 2013 by American Red Cross Northeast Wisconsin Chapter

The American Red Cross Disaster team assisted a family impacted by carbon monoxide poisoning on Sunday in Sheboygan.  Do you know what to do if this happened to your family?

Fire CO 2 FactSheet

Filed under: Preparedness | Tagged: , , , | Leave a Comment »

Burrrrr….. Mother Nature is Letting us Know it IS still Winter!

Posted on January 20, 2013 by American Red Cross Northeast Wisconsin Chapter

Preventing and Thawing Frozen Pipes

Being prepared and informed may help you to avoid the messy and often expensive issue of frozen pipes. The American Red Cross provides information and suggestions around how to prevent water pipes in the home from freezing, and how to thaw them if they do freeze.

Why Pipe Freezing is a Problem

Water has a unique property in that it expands as it freezes. This expansion puts tremendous pressure on whatever is containing it, including metal or plastic pipes. No matter the “strength” of a container, expanding water can cause pipes to break. Pipes that freeze most frequently are those that are exposed to severe cold, like outdoor hose bibs, swimming pool supply lines, water sprinkler lines, and water supply pipes in unheated interior areas like basements and crawl spaces, attics, garages, or kitchen cabinets. Pipes that run against exterior walls that have little or no insulation are also subject to freezing.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

Before the onset of cold weather, prevent freezing of these water supply lines and pipes by following these recommendations:

  • Drain water from swimming pool and water sprinkler supply lines following manufacturer's or installer's directions. Do not put antifreeze in these lines unless directed. Antifreeze is environmentally harmful, and is dangerous to humans, pets, wildlife, and landscaping.
  • Remove, drain, and store hoses used outdoors. Close inside valves supplying outdoor hose bibs. Open the outside hose bibs to allow water to drain. Keep the outside valve open so that any water remaining in the pipe can expand without causing the pipe to break.
  • Check around the home for other areas where water supply lines are located in unheated areas. Look in the basement, crawl space, attic, garage, and under kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Both hot and cold water pipes in these areas should be insulated.
  • Consider installing specific products made to insulate water pipes like a “pipe sleeve” or installing UL-listed “heat tape,” “heat cable,” or similar materials on exposed water pipes. Newspaper can provide some degree of insulation and protection to exposed pipes – even ¼” of newspaper can provide significant protection in areas that usually do not have frequent or prolonged temperatures below freezing.

During Cold Weather, Take Preventative Action

  • Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.
  • Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Be sure to move any harmful cleaners and household chemicals up out of the reach of children.
  • When the weather is very cold outside, let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe – even at a trickle – helps prevent pipes from freezing.
  • Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may incur a higher heating bill, but you can prevent a much more costly repair job if pipes freeze and burst.
  • If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.

To Thaw Frozen Pipes

  • If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle comes out, suspect a frozen pipe. Likely places for frozen pipes include against exterior walls or where your water service enters your home through the foundation.
  • Keep the faucet open. As you treat the frozen pipe and the frozen area begins to melt, water will begin to flow through the frozen area. Running water through the pipe will help melt ice in the pipe.
  • Apply heat to the section of pipe using an electric heating pad wrapped around the pipe, an electric hair dryer, a portable space heater (kept away from flammable materials), or by wrapping pipes with towels soaked in hot water. Do not use a blowtorch, kerosene or propane heater, charcoal stove, or other open flame device.
  • Apply heat until full water pressure is restored. If you are unable to locate the frozen area, if the frozen area is not accessible, or if you can not thaw the pipe, call a licensed plumber.
  • Check all other faucets in your home to find out if you have additional frozen pipes. If one pipe freezes, others may freeze, too.

Future Protection

  • Consider relocating exposed pipes to provide increased protection from freezing.
  • Pipes can be relocated by a professional if the home is remodeled.
  • Add insulation to attics, basements and crawl spaces. Insulation will maintain higher temperatures in these areas.
  • For more information, please contact a licensed plumber or building professional.
Click HERE to read about additional safety tips to keep you and your family safe!

Filed under: Preparedness | Tagged: , , , , , , | Leave a Comment »

Local Volunteers to Distribute Home Fire Safety Tips

Posted on January 18, 2013 by American Red Cross Northeast Wisconsin Chapter

Red Cross and Firefighters from Fond Du Lac working together at 2012 MLK day event.

American Red Cross staff and volunteers, fire department, Girl Scouts, Fresh Start representatives will honor the service of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by canvassing neighborhoods to provide tips on fire safety and prevention, and to remind residents that home fires are one disaster that can be prevented.

During the MLK National Day of Service volunteers will be talking with people who are at home about ways to heat and cook safely, the value of smoke alarms and the need to create and practice a household fire escape plan. Fire safety and prevention door hangers in English and in Spanish will be provided to all homes volunteers visit, and left for neighbors who are not at home.

Anyone can be affected by a fire, regardless of background or geographic location, so when a volunteer rings your doorbell to encourage you to take the simple steps necessary to protect your family and home from fire, please listen up.

Community Outreach Teams include:

Saturday, January 19th Meetings at 9:00a.m. for briefing & canvassing instructions

Fond du Lac/North Fond du Lac: Red Cross office, 272 N. Main Street

Appleton: Fire Station 1, 700 Drew Street

Grand Chute: Fire Station, 2250 W. Grand Chute Boulevard

Neenah/Menasha: Fire Station 40, 1326 Cold Springs Road

Sheboygan: Fire Station 3, 1326 N. 25th Street

Monday, January 21st

Iola: Red Cross office in Waupaca, 9:00a.m. For the second consecutive year a team of Fresh Start staff/volunteers will canvass Iola and then Scandinavia if time permits.

Additionally:

Iron Mountain Michigan area: We have partnered with many local school districts to send information home in the children’s Friday folders.  School districts that have received the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. fire prevention door hangers include Iron Mountain, Woodland Elementary, Niagara, Norway, North Dickinson.  About 2,000 door hangers were distributed.

Green Bay School District: Is also sending fire prevention information home with the children.

Manitowoc: Has already been canvassed thanks to a local school group.

Home fires are the most common disaster that the Red Cross responds to—the Northeast Wisconsin Chapter responded to 171 local disasters last year with the national average being 90% are residential fires. And, according to the National Fire Protection Association, fires claim nine lives every day in the U.S. Make sure you and your loved ones are not part of these statistics.

With many people have the day-off on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, we are urging residents to take time with their families to create awareness. This includes practicing escape routes, establishing your meeting place, building a kit and making an overall plan should an emergency strike.

Lifesaving fire safety and prevention information is also available on the American Red Cross public website, www.redcross.org.

For additional information and to become involved in the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service please contact Lisa Stanchfield, Community Disaster Education leader, at 920-904-0820 or at Lisa.Stanchfield@redcross.org.

Filed under: Disaster Services, Preparedness | Tagged: , , , , , | Leave a Comment »

It is not too late to Give a Gift that Keeps Giving!

Posted on December 26, 2012 by American Red Cross Northeast Wisconsin Chapter

Anna Reid, a 15-year-old babysitter from Westfield, NJ wasn’t expecting to be a hero. It just happened. Anna was serving up French bread pizza to Matthew and Leia on a recent babysitting job when the unimaginable happened: Leia started choking.

The 4-year-old’s face turned bright red. Leia tried to cough and speak but couldn’t.

Anna acted quickly, giving Leia five back blows followed by some abdominal thrusts. It worked. Anna saved Leia’s life.

Anna’s mom explained that when she asked Anna how she knew what to do, Anna replied, “I’m not sure I could have told you what to do, but I knew what to do. I knew what to do when I needed to do it.” Anna said because her Red Cross training had her perform CPR in the class, rather than just show it, she immediately remembered how to respond in the moment.

“I have to say that’s really a great testimony to the kind of training that the American Red Cross offers…,” said Anna’s mom.

Leia’s lucky she had a prepared babysitter like Anna. If you were in a situation where someone was choking, would you know what to do? Take our one-minute quiz and find out!

If you want to become a certified babysitter, sign up for a Red Cross class!

Designed for 11 to 15 year olds, the Babysitter’s Training course can help your youngster—

  • Care for children and infants.
  • Be a good leader and role model.
  • Make good decisions and solve problems.
  • Handle emergencies such as injuries, illnesses and household accidents.
  • Write resumes and interview for jobs.
  • And much more!

Throughout the Eastern WI area Babysitter Trainings are being offered on the following dates:

Babysitter Training Courses – $85

Friday, December 28th 8:30 am – 4 pm

American Red Cross Oshkosh Office

Saturday, January 12th 8:30 am – 4 pm

American Red Cross Green Bay office

Saturday, January 12th 8:30 am – 4 pm

American Red Cross Scenic Shores Chapter, Manitowoc

Saturday, January 19th 8:30 am – 4 pm

American Red Cross Outagamie Chapter

Visit www.redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS to register today.

Filed under: Health and Safety, Preparedness | Tagged: , , , , , | Leave a Comment »

Next Page »
Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.