Resolve to be Red Cross Ready in 2012

As 2011 clearly proved, disaster can strike anyone at any time.

The Philadelphia area had more than its fair share of disasters. A big reason why those disasters were not as bad as they could have been is because our region was prepared.

We must remain vigilant, so while you’re making New Year’s resolutions, the American Red Cross of SoutheasternPennsylvania (SEPA) urges everyone to also Resolve to be Red Cross Ready in 2012.

Doing so could save your life, your family, and/or your home.

“Nothing will serve you better in the New Year than being prepared,” said American Red Cross Chief Executive Officer Judge Renee Cardwell Hughes. “Hopefully, you’ll never have a disaster, but if you do, being prepared for it will help minimize the damage and speed up your recovery.”

There are three basic actions to being Red Cross Ready. The actions are simple to follow and execute and each action is equally as important. They are:

1. Get a kit: Include a First Aid kit, blankets, extra clothing, prescription medications,glasses, infant formula, diapers, pet food, extra water for your pet, important family documents,identification, bank account records, cash, manual can opener, batteries, flashlight, duct tape,tools, hand sanitizer, activities for children, and enough food and water for at least three days. Pack everything in a waterproof, portable container, and check the expiration dates of food and prescriptions regularly.

2. Make a plan: Before an emergency happens, decide how your family members will get in contact with each other, where you will go, and what you will do. Determine a neighborhood meeting place, a regional meeting place, and an evacuation location. Also, identify an out-of-town emergency contact. In some cases, it may be easier to make a long-distance phonecall than to call across town.

3. Be informed: Find out what kinds of disasters, both natural and man-made, are most likely to occur in your area.

In addition to the three steps mentioned above, another great way to be Red Cross Ready in 2012 is to take a CPR or other lifesaving course. The American Red Cross offers a wide variety of classes.

To see those choices and to sign up as well as to get more information about how to be Red Cross Ready in 2012, go to www.redcrossphilly.org. To arrange interviews with Southeastern Pennsylvania Chapter representatives about Resolve to be Red Cross Ready in 2012, contact Dave Schrader at (215) 299-4042.