Volunteer to MS for Isaac

Mary Walker of Dunkirk, NY deployed Friday to Hattiesburg, MS to provide assistance in the American Red Cross shelters as the residents recover from Hurricane Isaac.

The response to help people affected by Hurricane Isaac is a large one, spanning several states with millions of people affected by the storm. The Red Cross is working closely with local, state and federal officials and community organizations to coordinate this multi-state relief response and help ensure people get the help they need.

Anyone wishing to help those affected by disasters such as Isaac are encouraged to make a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief by visiting www.redcross.org, calling 1-800-REDCROSS or texting the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation (charges will appear on phone bill).

Red Cross Receives Major Funding for New Chapter Van

The American Red Cross of Southwestern New York, which serves Allegany, Cattaraugus and Chautauqua counties, recently received $20,000 in grant funding for the purchase of a Chapter vehicle.  The funding, made possible through the F.T. and Anna C. Manley Memorial Fund, will be used to purchase a van to transport disaster relief trailers throughout Cattaraugus and Allegany Counties.

 

“The Chapter is grateful to the Manley Memorial Fund for their generosity,” stated William Tucker, Chapter Executive Director.  “This van will help us remain prepared to respond to our communities in the event of a disaster in the Southwestern NY area.”  Tucker explained that Chapter disaster relief trailers typically carry supplies like cots and clean up kits for shelters and post event clean up.

The F.T. and Anna C. Manley Memorial Fund, maintained by KeyBank, is a proud supporter of the Red Cross’ mission of preventing and alleviating human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors.  “The Manley Memorial Fund recognizes the vital work of the Red Cross in the counties of Allegany and Cattaraugus, as well as in Chautauqua County,” added Ron Sutton of KeyBank, who presented the check recently.  “This grant will better equip the Chapter, its staff and volunteers to cover the 3,844 square miles of their jurisdiction in the event of an emergency or disaster.”

Photo caption: L to R – Ron Sutton, KeyBank; Bill Tucker, American Red Cross SWNY Chapter Executive Director, and Tom Domin, KeyBank.

Response Vehicle to Deploy

Charlie Meder with the SWNY Chapter ERV

The American Red Cross is preparing for what could be a large disaster response spanning multiple states and is already starting to help the millions of people whose communities are under warnings from Tropical Storm Isaac. Red Cross disaster workers are responding throughout the Gulf region, providing shelter and help in Florida and preparing to open evacuation shelters in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama.

Locally, the American Red Cross continues to deploy volunteers to assist in the affected areas, and Emergency Response Vehicles (ERV) from Niagara County and Southwestern New York will be heading to Port Allen, Louisiana on Tuesday morning to assist in Mass Care and Feeding efforts. Volunteers Priscilla Baker and Susan Schafer of Ransomville will be driving the ERV from Niagara Falls, and Charles Meder of Stockton and Pete Swales of Springville will deploy with the ERV from Jamestown. 

Beth Shook to Provide Assistance to LA

Beth Shook of Cuba, NY deployed Sunday night to Port Allen, LA to provide staffing support as the American Red Cross opens shelters in Louisiana as Isaac makes landfall.

Isaac could bring strong winds gusting as high as 75 mph and 4 to 8 inches of rain. The American Red Cross is helping prepare individuals and communities in the path of the storm, while taking steps to respond in the Gulf Coast.

More than 50 trailers with supplies to support hundreds of people each are pre-positioned along the Gulf and East coasts in preparation for hurricane season. Each trailer is stocked with cots, blankets and comfort kits. Kitchen trailers are also prepositioned with items on board like beverage containers, food carriers and ice chests.

Anyone wishing to help those affected by disasters such as Isaac are encouraged to make a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief by visiting www.redcross.org, calling 1-800-REDCROSS or texting the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation (charges will appear on phone bill). 

What's in Your Kit?

The American Red Cross of Southwestern New York would like the residents in Allegany, Cattaraugus, and Chautauqua Counties to be prepared for disaster at any time. By building a kit, making a plan and staying informed, residents have a better chance of surviving a disaster. Making a plan and staying informed simply means having a plan of action in case of an emergency, as well as knowing what is going on around you. But how do you build the kit?  
Many organizations encourage nearly the same items in a disaster preparedness kit. Keep at least a three day supply of water for each person-one gallon per person per day. When it comes to food, keep at least a three day supply for each person of nonperishable, easy-to-prepare food. Pack a flashlight and extra batteries in case power is out and you need to see in the dark. A battery powered or hand crank radio to stay informed during a disaster is encouraged. A first aid kid comes in handy during an emergency- you never know who is going to be hurt.

Here are some other suggested items to keep in your kit:
-Extra clothing, hat and sturdy shoes
-Medications (7­-day supply) and medical items (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, cane)
-Multi­-purpose tool
-Sanitation and personal hygiene items
-Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
-Cell phone with chargers
-Family and emergency contact information
-Extra cash
-Silver-foil emergency blanket
-Map(s) of the area
-Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)
-Pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, carrier, bowl)
-Tools/supplies for securing your home
-Extra set of car keys and house keys
-Rain gear
-Insect repellent and sunscreen
-Camera for photos of damage
For more information on building an emergency kit, visit www.redcross.org.

Local Volunteer Deploying to Assist in Isaac Relief Operations

Dominic DiGirolamo to Provide mental health services in Florida

Dominic DiGirolamo of Belmont, NY will be flying to Tampa, FL. on Friday to provide Disaster Mental Health counseling as the American Red Cross prepares for relief operations across Florida as Isaac makes landfall.

Tropical Storm Isaac is threatening parts of the Caribbean, including Haiti, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, and could affect southern Florida early next week. Isaac could bring strong winds gusting as high as 75 mph and 4 to 8 inches of rain. The American Red Cross is helping prepare individuals and communities in the path of the storm, while taking steps to respond in Florida.

In Florida, the Red Cross is identifying available shelters, assembling disaster teams, and coordinating with government and community partners like the Southern Baptist Convention and NAACP. Preparations occur all year long for storms like Isaac. For example, more than 50 trailers with supplies to support hundreds of people each are pre-positioned along the Gulf and East coasts in preparation for hurricane season. Each trailer is stocked with cots, blankets and comfort kits. Kitchen trailers are also prepositioned with items on board like beverage containers, food carriers and ice chests.

Emotional support is also an important part of the relief effort. Red Cross mental health volunteers, including DiGirolamo, will be helping people cope as they prepare and clean up the devastation and begin the recovery.

Anyone wishing to help those affected by disasters such as Isaac are encouraged to make a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief by visiting www.redcross.org, calling 1-800-REDCROSS or texting the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation (charges will appear on phone bill). 

Isaac Threatens Caribbean and Florida

Tropical Storm Isaac is threatening parts of the Caribbean, including Haiti, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, and could affect southern Florida early next week. Isaac could bring strong winds gusting as high as 75 mph and 4 to 8 inches of rain. The American Red Cross is helping prepare individuals and communities in the path of the storm, while taking steps to respond in Florida if needed.

In Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Red Cross is working with government officials to identify shelters, get supplies ready and mobilize disaster workers. The Red Cross works all year long to support disaster preparedness and response activities in Haiti and other parts of the Caribbean, including early warning systems, secure roofs, better drainage, and clear evacuation routes.

In Florida, the Red Cross is identifying available shelters, assembling disaster teams, and coordinating with government and community partners like the Southern Baptist Convention and NAACP. Preparations occur all year long for storms like Isaac. For example, more than 50 trailers with supplies to support hundreds of people each are pre-positioned along the Gulf and East coasts in preparation for hurricane season. Each trailer is stocked with cots, blankets and comfort kits. Kitchen trailers are also prepositioned with items on board like beverage containers, food carriers and ice chests.

Those who may be in the path of the storm can download the new free Red Cross Hurricane App which puts real time information on hurricane safety at someone’s fingertips. The app features information on Red Cross shelters and a toolkit with a flashlight, strobe light and alarm. The one-touch “I’m Safe” button lets someone use social media outlets to let family and friends know they are okay. People across the country planning to travel to areas predicted to get hit with the storm can use the app to receive weather alerts. The Hurricane App can be found in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store for Android by searching for American Red Cross.

People who may be in the path of the storm should get prepared now by finalizing hurricane plans and updating their emergency supply kits. Emergency kits should contain a three-day supply of water for each person, along with food that doesn’t require refrigeration, flashlights, a battery-operated radio and a first aid kit. A full list of suggested items is available on this web site. If anyone would like to help, they can make a donation by visitingwww.redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or texting the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

Create a Plan and Practice It!

What good is a plan if you never practice it or use it? The American Red Cross of Southwestern New York encourages you to make a disaster plan—and practice it! In less than three minutes your home could be totally engulfed in flames, so every second counts when it comes to an emergency. Each household member should know how to react quickly and calmly.

Take some time to call a “family meeting” to discuss what to do if a fire occurs in your home. Create a floor plan of your home and identify at least two ways (doorway and a window for example) out of every room; especially the bedrooms. If your home has two or more floors, escape ladders can be placed in or near windows to provide an escape if needed. Identify a meeting place outside the home that everyone can go to and know that each other is safe. Remind everyone to NEVER go back inside. Call the fire department from outside the home as quickly as possible.

The majority of fatal fires occur when people are sleeping, so working smoke alarms are essential. Smoke alarms serve as an early warning device- notifying you of the potential fire. Smoke alarms should be installed on every level both inside and outside of each sleeping area. Testing the smoke alarms on a regular basis not only ensures that the alarms are working properly and makes everyone aware of the sound the alarm makes.

Some people have installed sprinkler systems in their homes and businesses. These systems are designed to put the fire out before it can become a problem and could keep the fire contained to one area. This is just another layer of security and precaution-not a replacement of calling the fire department to put out the fire.

For more information on fire safety visit www.redcross.org.

Have Fun in College, Not a Fire!

Going to college is an exciting yet scary time in the life of a young adult. Moving to a new place, making new friends, and learning a new area can be overwhelming for the new co-ed. Often, this is the first time the young adult has to cook their own meals, do their own laundry, and even clean their own homes.

            According to the United States Fire Administration, cooking fires are the number one cause of fire injury on college campuses. To prevent cooking related fires, follow the dormitory rules regarding possession and use of cooking appliances. Use cooking appliances correctly. Do not overload electrical outlets or extension cords. Always pay attention when cooking. Do not get sidetracked or leave what you are cooking unattended. Move items such as potholders or dishtowels away from cooking surfaces.

Many higher education resident halls have policies in place regarding the use of some kitchen appliances and candles, but these do not apply to the approximately 66% of college students who live off-campus. Many students reside in one and two–family buildings which increases the chances for fires.

 Candles have become a leading cause of residential fires and fires that lead to death.  If allowed by dorm policies, be sure to extinguish all candles when leaving the room or going to sleep. More than a third of candle fires occur when they are left unattended. Keep the candle away from things that catch fire, such as clothing, books, papers, or curtains. Keep candles away from windows and windowsills due to the chance wind could knock the candle off or spread the flame to a nearby object. Place the candle on a stable surface that won’t tip over and that is big enough to collect the melting wax. Place candles where they will not be knocked over by children or pets.

For more information on fire safety visit www.redcross.org.

Fire Safety Tips for Older Americans

Older Adults are the fastest growing age group of the American population, and unfortunately, are at the highest risk of fire related deaths. Studies show that elderly fire victims tend to be in close contact with the source of the fire that kills them. Often, these deaths are caused by smoking, heating, or cooking incidents. Their clothing, bedding or upholstery ignites from the spark resulting in serious injury or death. Nearly two-thirds of fire deaths in the elderly occur while they are sleeping or trying to escape the fire. This statistic only proves the importance of preparing and practicing an escape plan and plan accordingly for the capabilities of older adults. The American Red Cross of Southwestern New York encourages older adults and their loved ones to better prepare for a fire emergency.

Some older adults have decreased mobility and other health issues that prohibit a quick response during a fire or any emergency.  Medications and atrophy with age lead to a slower response or confusion and could alter the decision-making process. Help from a family member, caregiver or neighbor may be required to assist an older adult in safely exiting then home. The best way of addressing this issue is prepare for it before it is needed.

The leading cause of residential fire deaths among older adults is careless smoking. If older adults must smoke, never smoke in bed or near oxygen source, gas stove, or other flammable object. When cooking, never approach an open flame while wearing loose clothing and do not leave cooking unattended-use a timer to remind you of food in the oven. Never use the oven to heat your home. Properly maintain chimneys and space heaters.

Make sure smoke alarms are installed in each bedroom and outside all sleeping areas. Try to test them monthly and at least once a year. Caregivers and family members are encouraged to check smoke alarms for those who are unable to. The chance of survival-of any age- doubles with the initial warning of a smoke alarm.

Designing a fire escape plan around capabilities of the older adult is the key to survival in an emergency. Know at least two exists from every room.  If the older adult uses a walker or wheelchair, check to make sure all exits can fit a walker or wheelchair so they can get out safely. If needed, make any necessary accommodations, such as providing an emergency exit ramp and widening doorways. And remember, unless instructed by the fire department; never use an elevator during a fire.

Try to speak with all older adults in your life about working with family members and neighbors to create a fire safety plan. It is also important to help them practice their plan. If special accommodations need to made, some local fire departments may be able to assist with designing an escape plan to meet those needs. The fire department also might help inspect the home for fire safety and could offer suggestions about smoke alarm placement and maintenance.

The American Red Cross has several tips for fire safety and emergency preparedness on their website-www.redcross.org. The American Red Cross of Southwestern New York is a United Way agency.

Summer is Not Over Yet-Heat Tips for Athletes

Amid one of the hottest summers on record in many states, practice for fall sports has already begun. It is important to remember that extreme heat is especially dangerous for athletes. To help ensure the well-being of athletes, the American Red Cross has tips to keep players safe during hot weather activity including hydration and acclimatization.

“Keeping athletes safe during extreme temperatures is as important as getting them ready for the upcoming season,” said Dr. David Markenson, chair of the American Red Cross Scientific Advisory Council. “One of the most important thing athletes can do is stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids like water or sports drinks with electrolytes before, during and after practice – even if you are not thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol,” Markenson added.

During the hot weather, team practices should be scheduled for early in the day and later in the evening to avoid exposing players to the hottest times of the day. Other steps teams, schools and parents should take to protect their athletes include:

·         Allow athletes to get acclimated to the heat by reducing the intensity of practice until they are more accustomed to it.

·         Make frequent, longer breaks a regular part of practice. About every 20 minutes stop for fluids and try to keep the athletes in the shade if possible.

·         Reduce the amount of heavy equipment—like football pads—athletes wear in extremely hot, humid weather.

·         Dress athletes, when appropriate, in net-type jerseys or light-weight, light-colored, cotton T-shirts and shorts.

·         Know the signs of heat-related emergencies and monitor athletes closely.

“Knowing the signs of heat-related emergencies and how to help someone who is suffering from the heat is vital,” Markenson stressed. “Coaches and parents need to be vigilant in watching for signs of heat-related emergencies. Athletes should inform their coaches, teachers or parents if they are not feeling well.”

Heat illness is when the body temperature rises because of exertion. If a person's body temperature hits 103 degrees, that means the person is suffering from heat exhaustion. If a person’s body temperature hits 104 degrees or higher, that means the person is suffering from heat stroke.

Heat exhaustion is caused by a combination of exercise induced heat and fluid and electrolyte loss from sweating. Signs of heat exhaustion include cool, moist, pale or flushed skin; heavy sweating; headache; nausea; dizziness; weakness; and exhaustion. To help someone with these symptoms:

Move the person to a cooler place. Remove or loosen tight clothing. Spray him or her with water or apply cool, wet cloths or towels to the skin. Fan the person. If the person is conscious, give small amounts of cool water cool water or a sports drink with electrolytes to drink. Make sure the person drinks slowly. Watch for changes in his or her condition. If the person refuses water, vomits or begins to lose consciousness, call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number.

Heat stroke (also known as sunstroke) is a life-threatening condition in which a person’s temperature control system stops working and the body is unable to cool itself. Signs of heat stroke include those of heat exhaustion and hot, red skin which may be dry or moist; change or loss of consciousness; seizures; vomiting; and high body temperature. Heat stroke is life-threatening. Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number immediately.

Move the person to a cooler place. Quickly cool the person’s body by immersing them up to their neck in cold water if possible. If unable to immerse them, continue rapid cooling by applying bags of ice or cold packs wrapped in a cloth to the wrists, ankles, groin, neck and armpits, spraying with water and/or fanning.

Exertional heat stroke is the leading cause of preventable death in high school athletics, according to the National Federation of State High School Associations. Deaths from heat stroke are preventable and precautions need to be taken around summer heat hazards.

For Pets On The Go-Keep Them Safe

Each year millions of Americans hit the road in search of summer relaxation, adventure, or just some peaceful time with relatives. Many choose to bring their pet with them. In the age where more pets accompany their human companions on vacations, more and more hotels and lodges are becoming pet friendly.

Those who do frequently travel with their pet state that their biggest fear is that their pet will get sick, hurt, or lost during the trip. When you are hundreds of miles from home, finding a veterinarian in a panic can be daunting. But with some careful planning and preparation you can minimize your fears and make traveling with your pets an enjoyable experience.

Consider all of your options before travelling with Fido or Fluffy. Many times your pet will be happier if allowed to travel with you, however balance your pet’s overall health and safety. Choose the safest mode of travel for your pet. Think about the pet’s health, age, whether your pet likes to travel, where you’ll be staying and the time of year. Your pet may travel well for short trips to the park or weekend camping trips, but cannot handle cross country ventures. An older pet with arthritis may be very uncomfortable the winter during rides. It may be better to consider a kennel, pet sitting service, or family member to care for your pet. 

When you decide that bringing your pet is the best option, you need to pack for your pet as well as yourself. The essential items to pack for your pet include medications and medical records, food and bowls, a pet first aid kit, bedding, leash, collar and tags, grooming supplies, current pet photo in case your pet gets lost, a favorite toy or two, a sturdy and well ventilated carrier, litter and litter box (for cats). It might help to pack all pet items in a specific bag just for your pet, that way you do not have to look in several bags for pet supplies.

Before travelling too far, have your pet examined by a veterinarian. Make sure vaccinations are up to date and get any medications your pet might need during the trip. If you are going to give your pet medications to reduce anxiety or travel sickness symptoms, test your pet several days in advance to see if the pet is allergic or has any adverse reaction to it.

As you hit the road build time in your travel plans for frequent stops. Allow your pet to stretch and take a drink of water. Before you put your pet in the car and go, take some safety steps to keep him safe as you drive. All cats should be in a crate or carrier. Dogs can be in a crate or carrier or restrained in a special harness that attaches to the seat belt. If you use a pet barrier in the back seat, make sure it is sturdy and firmly attached so it does not collapse on your pet. Never allow your pet to ride in the front passenger seat-especially one that is airbag equipped. Finally, never leave your pet alone in a parked car. That will leave your pet vulnerable to heat distress and theft.

Pets are definitely an important part of the family. In order to include them during your next trip or family vacation and make the experience enjoyable for all, be sure to take the time to plan and prepare for their travels. By knowing what to pack, what to expect, and what to do each step of the way you minimize their change of injury and ensure that your pet has a safe and stress-free trip. For additional information and a list of Red Cross Pet First Aid visit www.redcross.org. 

Severe Weather While Driving-How to Stay Safe

You’re driving along an unfamiliar rural interstate. The sun is shining one minute and the next the sky turns ominously dark. A storm is coming, and from the looks of things it could be a bad one. Do you know what to do to stay safe? The American Red Cross has steps to follow to remain safe if they run into a storm while traveling.

Monster storms have been tearing across the country recently with strong winds and heavy rain, sometimes popping up unexpectedly as people drive to their destination.

If planning to travel by vehicle, first check the weather forecast for your entire route, getting prepared for what may be in store. Travel and weather web sites can help you avoid storms and other regional challenges that could impact your safety. Other steps to take before you depart include:

Shop the Red Cross Store for all your preparedness needs.

• Let someone know your destination, your route, and when you expect to arrive. If your car gets stuck along the way, help can be sent along your predetermined route.
• Carry a Disaster Supplies Kit in your trunk.
• Pack high-protein snacks, water, first aid kit, flashlight, small battery-operated radio, an emergency contact card with names and phone numbers, extra prescription medications and important documents or information you may need.
• Find out what disasters may occur in the place where you are traveling, especially if they are disasters you have never experienced before. Find out how you would get information in the event of a disaster (local radio systems, emergency alert systems).

As you get ready to depart, fill the vehicle’s gas tank and clean the lights and windows to help you see. Don’t let the gas tank get too low during the trip. Use your seat belts and give your full attention to the road and avoid distractions such as cell phones. Don’t follow other vehicles too closely and use caution in work zones.

Many states now use flashing signs along the highways to warn drivers about severe weather threats. If you pass one of these signs, or the sky turns dark and threatening, tune into a local radio station to listen to weather forecasts for where you are. If you are caught in a storm while driving, turn your headlights on and try to safely exit the roadway and park. Stay in the vehicle and turn on the emergency flashers until the heavy rain ends. If thunder and lightning is occurring, avoid touching metal or other surfaces that conduct electricity in and outside the vehicle.

Tornadoes are more common in the Plains states, but have been reported in every state. If flying debris occurs while driving, pull over and park. You have the following options as a last resort:

• Stay in the car with the seat belt on. Put your head down below the windows, covering your head with your hands and a blanket if possible.
• If you can safely get noticeably lower than the level of the roadway, exit your car and lie in that area, covering your head with your hands.
• Your choice should be driven by your specific circumstances.

Keep Safe When Heading Back To School

As another school year begins, the American Red Cross has steps that everyone can take to make the trip back to the classroom safer.

“When kids go back to school, parents should make sure the child knows his or her home phone number and address, parents’ work contact information, how to get in touch with another trusted adult and how to dial 9-1-1,” said Dr. David Markenson, chair of the American Red Cross Scientific Advisory Council and pediatric expert.

 “Parents should also teach their children not to talk to strangers or accept rides from someone they don’t know,” Markenson added.

If children ride a bus to school, they should plan to get to their bus stop early and stand away from the curb while waiting for the bus to arrive. Other safety steps for students include:

·         Board the bus only after it has come to a complete stop and the driver or attendant has instructed you to get on.

·         Only board your bus and never an alternate one.

·         Always stay in clear view of the bus driver and never walk behind the bus.

·         Cross the street at the corner, obeying traffic signals and staying in the crosswalk.

·         Never dart out into the street, or cross between parked cars.

Motorists should know what the yellow and red bus signals mean:

·         Yellow flashing lights— the bus is getting ready to stop and motorists should slow down and be prepared to stop.

·         Red flashing lights and an extended stop sign — the bus is stopped and children are getting on or off. Drivers in both directions must stop their vehicles and wait until the lights go off, the stop sign is back in place and the bus is moving before they can start driving again.

If children ride in a car to get to school, they should always wear a seat belt. Younger children should use car seats or booster seats until the lap-shoulder belt fits properly (typically for children ages 8-12 and over 4’9”), and ride in the back seat until they are at least 13 years old.

If a teenager is going to drive to school, parents should mandate that they use seat belts. Drivers should not use their cell phone to text or make calls, and should avoid eating or drinking while driving. All drivers should be aware that children are out walking or biking to school and slow down, especially in residential areas and school zones.

Students who ride their bike to school should always wear a helmet, obey all traffic signs and ride on the right in the same direction as traffic.

Those who walk to school should only cross the street at an intersection, and use a route along which the school has placed crossing guards. Parents should walk young children and children taking new routes or attending new schools at least for the first week to ensure they know how to get there safely. Thereafter, arrange for the kids to walk to school with a friend or classmate. For more back to school safety visit www.redcross.org.