Tag Archives: Red Cross

Red Cross Offers Top 10 Driving and Other Travel Tips for the Holidays

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PHOENIX — Millions of people are expected to travel over the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, and the American Red Cross is offering tips travelers can follow as they visit loved ones over the long weekend.

“More vehicles are expected on the highways, making travel risks greater,” said Colin Williams, Regional Communications Officer, American Red Cross “Bad weather and distracted drivers also add to the danger, so plan ahead and expect delays.”

DRIVING SAFETY

  1. Make sure your car is in good condition for a road trip.
  2. Pack an emergency preparedness kit and supplies in the trunk.
  3. Share travel plans with a family member or friend.
  4. Check the weather along your route and plan for travel around any storms that may be coming.
  5. Be well rested and alert.
  6. Buckle up, slow down, and don’t drive while impaired.
  7. Follow the rules of the road and use caution in work zones.
  8. Give your full attention to the road. Avoid distractions such as cell phones.
  9. Make frequent stops. During long trips, rotate drivers. If you’re too tired to drive, stop and get some rest.
  10. If you have car trouble, pull of the road as far as possible.

OTHER SAFETY TIPS

Winter weather:

  1. Keep the car’s gas tank full for emergency use and to keep the fuel line from freezing.
  2. Pull over and stay with your vehicle. Do not try to walk to safety.
  3. Tie a brightly colored cloth (preferably red) to the antenna for rescuers to see.
  4. Start the car and use the heater for about 10 minutes every hour. Keep the exhaust pipe clear so fumes won’t back up in the car.
  5. Leave the overhead light on when the engine is running to help rescuers see the vehicle.
  6. Keep one window slightly open – away from the blowing wind – to let in air.

Public transportation and preventing the spread of the flu virus:

  1. Everything you touch is likely touched by someone else – luggage, seats, etc. – which is how germs are spread.
  2. Handle your own belongings. Wash your hands often with soap and water.
  3. Carry hand sanitizer and anti-bacterial wipes with you. You can use them to wash your hands or wipe down surfaces such as armrests.
  4. Bring your own pillows and blankets – they can act as a shield against the seat itself.
  5. Avoid touching your face or eyes. If you have to cough or sneeze, do so into a tissue or your sleeve.

DOWNLOAD RED CROSS APPS

People can download the Red Cross Emergency App for instant access to weather alerts for their area and where loved ones live. Expert medical guidance and a hospital locator are included in the First Aid App in case travelers encounter any mishaps. Both apps are available to download for free in app stores or at redcross.org/apps.

American Red Cross asking for assistance

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PHOENIX – The American Red Cross is currently working with emergency managers in response to multiple wildfires throughout the state as well as numerous multi-family home fires. Currently, 88 Red Cross volunteers are mobilized and are responding to individual and community needs by providing shelter, meals, snacks, water, emergency supplies, and health services. Many of our dedicated volunteers are working multiple locations and long hours to provide the help needed in the communities affected.

Flo Hencken is just one example of a volunteer with a true American Red Cross spirit. Despite being evacuated by the Goodwin Fire herself, she has put on her Red Cross vest and is focused on helping her neighbors and community who have also been affected by the fire.

The American Red Cross needs your support. It is only through your generous donations that we are able to provide substantial financial assistance to the people affected by these disasters. Please consider donating, volunteering or giving blood. Every single dollar makes an impact. You can find your local chapter by visiting www.redcross.org.

Additional resources available: With evacuations in effect in some areas and potential evacuations in additional locations, the Red Cross recommends downloading the free Red Cross Wildfire App or Emergency App. http://www.redcross.org/get-help/prepare-for-emergencies/mobile-apps

Red Cross opens shelter in Pine AZ as a result of the winter storm and power outages.

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PHOENIX – The American Red Cross Greater Phoenix Chapter has opened a shelter at the Pine Community Center located at 3916 N. Highway 87 Pine AZ 85544 to assist those who have been displaced by the storm or are affected by power outages in the area.

In advance of the storm, the Red Cross of Greater Phoenix prepositioned a team to Pine on Thursday. Power outages in the area have triggered the opening of the warming center/shelter.

The Red Cross would like to remind everyone to avoid the use of improvised heating sources during power cold weather power outages. Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area. Locate unit away from doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors.