Category Archives
Syndicate
Subscribe to blog
Monthly Archives
- March 2010
- February 2010
- January 2010
- December 2009
- November 2009
- October 2009
- September 2009
- August 2009
- July 2009
- June 2009
- May 2009
- April 2009
- March 2009
- February 2009
- January 2009
- December 2008
- November 2008
- October 2008
- September 2008
Cross Blog
Red Cross tests communication capabilities with state, federal agencies
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Written by John White, who has been volunteering with the Red Cross for nearly a decade
On April 22, fellow volunteer Ken Boyd and I took the Greater Carolinas Chapter’s Emergency Communications Response Vehicle (ECRV) to the North Carolina Domestic Preparedness Region 6 Communication Exercise in Moore County. Organized by the North Carolina Office of Emergency Management, this exercise is intended to validate radio frequencies, equipment and procedures used to communicate between different counties and response agencies within Region 6 (which includes the counties of Anson, Harnett, Johnston, Moore, Randolph, Richmond, Chatham, Hoke, Lee, Montgomery, Scotland and Wake).
The ECRV is what the Red Cross uses as a communications hub during times of disaster. Equipped with loads of technology, the ECRV can generate power, connect to the Internet, host multiple phone lines and can acquire satellite signals - among other things. It’s important for the ECRV to be tested as it was during this exercise to ensure we can communicate with other state and federal agencies should a disaster occur.
In the past (pre-Sept. 11, 2001), interagency radio communication was a significant problem. Since that time, there have been large expenditures for up-to-date communication equipment, which allows much more flexibility but still requires coordination between the many different county, state and federal agencies on how to use the new technologies. The phrase overhead was: “put our mouth where our money is.”
Attending the exercise were mobile communication units from:
- N.C. Highway Patrol
- N.C. State Bureau of Investigations
- N.C. Emergency Management
- N.C. Forest Service
- N.C. Department of Transportation
- N.C. Emergency Medical Services
- N.C. National Guard
- Civil Air Patrol
- Wake Med
- U.S. Homeland Security
- Charlotte Fire Department
- the Greater Carolinas Chapter’s ECRV
- Amatuer Radio Emergency Service (ARES)
Most of the agencies gave presentations about their capabilities, operations and needs. The Red Cross got to brag about our fleet of donated ECRVs and our volunteer crews who man them. Of special interest was the N.C. Highway Patrol presentation of the relatively new VIPER (Voice Interoperability Plan for Emergency Responders) system. It’s an 800 MHz radio system with repeat towers throughout North Carolina and can quickly link different county and agency radio systems when needed.
The afternoon exercise included each country trying to contact other participating counties, scoring either a “copy direct” or “no copy.” The after-action review then summarized the day’s activity. As these exercises continue, more “copy directs” can be accomplished.
To this “radio geek,” the amount of mobile communication equipment and capabilities represented was amazing and impressive. We are much more capable now than we were even just five years ago. I also couldn’t help but notice that only the ARES ham radio operators and our ECRV were the only units there representing zero taxpayer dollars. That good Red Cross volunteer feeling was also there.
How to Avoid Swine Flu
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
From Red Cross Chat
This blog post is a group effort of Red Crossers Robin Parker, Wendy Harman, and Claire Sale:Here are some important things we bloggers have been doing to stay safe while on the road this week:
- Washing our hands. This task doesn’t have to be a bore. In fact, humming a complete renditon of “Row Row Row Your Boat” or “Happy Birthay” while washing willl not only entertain your stall mates, but also ensure that you’ve lathered long enough to get rid of most germs.
- Not Hanging Out With People Who Are Sick. Er, duh? Unless you’re a caregiver, steer clear of sick folks.
- Learning How to Sneeze. Seriously. Nowadays they teach elementary school kids to sneeze into their elbows, but many adults still use their hands. Think about it. You’re not going to pick up many things with your elbows, right?
- Putting Masks In Our Kit. We’ve got ‘em at home, but we had to build a road kit this week. It was easy to stop by the local Walgreens and pick up a few of these. They may look silly, but our fashion motto is “safety before style.” Depending on CDC recommendations, we may decide to wear them on the plane.
- Another good idea: Check your pantry to make sure you’ve got plenty of food and water in case you end up needing to take a few sick days.
- This is a serious situation that has the potential to spread, and it is a good time for families, businesses and organizations to follow good public health practices and to review and update their preparedness plans.
- Stocking extra food, water and supplies at home will reduce the need to go out should this swine flu strain become more widespread and schools or businesses temporarily close. The Red Cross recommends storing a two-week supply of food, water and household necessities such as laundry detergent and toilet paper. A gallon of water per person per day should be stored in clean plastic containers. Family preparation steps should also include storing formula for infants, food for special nutritional needs, essential medicines and medical items, and extra food for pets.
- People seeking information on human swine flu should visit the CDC web site or call 1-800-CDC-INFO
World Malaria Day
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
From Red Cross Chat
Check out the World Malaria Day Report
- Malaria kills nearly 1 million people every year
- 86 percent of malaria cases occur in Africa, but it’s still a global problem affecting Asia and Latin America
- There is no vaccine for malaria.
You may have heard about Ashton Kutcher’smeteoric rise to Twitter fame on the promise that he’d ding dong ditch Ted Turner’s house (that’s ringing the doorbell and running away) if he got to a million followers before CNN a couple of weeks ago.
Luckily, he added a more substantial contribution to society a couple days after this promise. He pledged to donate 10,000 malaria nets to people in need if he “beat” CNN.
Here at the Red Cross, we distribute malaria nets even without the million Twitter followers (although we’d love for you to follow @RedCross and @GCCRedCross – there’s good stuff there) and certainly without the ding dong ditching.
We’ve relied on your donations ($10 per bed net) to avert 289,000 malaria deaths since 2002.
In honor of World Malaria Day, here’s some info about our program and how you can help:
The most effective prevention is to sleep under an insecticide-treated bed net which protects people from getting bitten and kills mosquitoes.
The Red Cross is playing a major role not only by distributing mosquito nets but also by having trained volunteers to visit households who received a net to make sure community members know how to use it.
The American Red Cross supports these “Hang Up” and “Keep Up” campaigns in Haiti, Indonesia, Madagascar, Mozambique and Uganda. We also support bed net distributions during measles vaccination campaigns, and after disasters, such as floods and cyclones, when flooding creates ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
As a result of Red Cross net distributions, since 2002 more than 289,000 malaria deaths have been averted, while 17.5 million people have been better protected.
Red Cross responds to Myrtle Beach, S.C., wildfires
Monday, April 27, 2009
By Maya Chawla, Senior Communications Specialist, American Red Cross
Photo courtesy of The Charlotte Observer, Janet Blackmon MorganDONATE NOW
Thursday, April 23 — This morning I awoke to my husband screaming “South Carolina is on fire!” Being a native South Carolinian, I jumped out of bed and wanted to see what the racket was about. I got to the television and learned there was a wildfire in Myrtle Beach. Then, I saw a reporter standing in front of the American Red Cross Emergency Response Vehicle. An organization that I work for and love is responding in state that I love, helping those affected by the fires. I have never had a prouder moment.
My buddy, Scott R. Salemme, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross of Central South Carolina, said, “The American Red Cross is providing mass care feeding and sheltering for those displaced by the Horry County wildfires. We are also providing feeding for first responders.”
The Red Cross has opened two shelters and activated two of its emergency response vehicles. Shelters are located at the House of Blues and the North Myrtle Beach Aquatic Center. There are currently 250 people registered in these shelters, and the Red Cross expects many more, since approximately 2,500 citizens have been told to evacuate their homes. As of 11 a.m., the wildfire has burned more than 1,500 acres, destroyed 40 homes and damaged 100 homes. The Red Cross, in partnership with other local non-profits, is ready to feed evacuees and responders.
Salemme continued, “We could not do our work without the support of our wonderful volunteers and community partners. Please donate to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund today.”
Citizens are reminded that shelters cannot accept pets; however, arrangements have been made with local animal hospitals and rescue organizations to house pets in the interim.
Here are some tips if you are evacuating:
Wear protective clothing--sturdy shoes, cotton or woolen clothing, long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, gloves, and a handkerchief to protect your face.
Take your pets. The American Red Cross cannot accept pets in shelters due to FDA regulations; however the Red Cross has partnered with local animal hospitals and rescue organizations to make arrangement for pets. There is limited space for evacuees’ pets at either the Murrells Inlet Veterinary Hospital at 843-651-3355 or the Saint Frances Animal Hospital at 843-249-1988.
Take your Disaster Supplies Kit.
Lock your home.
Tell someone when you left and where you are going.
Choose a route away from fire hazards. Watch for changes in the speed and direction of fire and smoke.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and counsels victims of disasters; provides nearly half of the nation’s blood supply; teaches lifesaving skills; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its humanitarian mission. For more information, please visit http://www.redcross.org or join our blog at http://www.redcrosschat.org.
Welcome, Serve America Act
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
This post originally appeared on April 8, 2008, on the fabulous Oregon Trail Chapter’s blog, Cross Blog.
President Obama is expected to sign the Serve America Act into law today.
Jump up and get down!
Why are these AmeriCorps*VISTA members so excited? No, Jump Around is not playing in the background. Although, I’m sure most of these people can appreciate House of Pain and the strange catharsis that early 90’s hip hop can provide. This is just an excitable group, but in terms of national service there’s a lot to be thrilled about right now. During the closing days of March, Congress passed the Serve America Act that will lead to enormous improvement and expansion of national and community service programs throughout the country.
While rumors are flying that service will become mandatory, no need to worry it’s all on a volunteer basis. If President Obama signs the bill, as he’s expected to do [today], one of the headlining changes is an increase from 75,000 to 250,000 enrollees in the multitude of programs the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) offers such as Americorps and VISTA.
Read more about how this will affect the Red Cross.
Subscribe to Red Cross Chat.
Use Twitter to help raise $100K for the Red Cross!
Friday, April 17, 2009
(From Red Cross Chat)
Hugh Jackman is going to donate $100,000 to a nonprofit organization. How will he choose? He’s asking people to convince him of the worthiness of their favorite charity in a tweet.So, whether you‘re currently on Twitter or not, here’s your chance to be responsible for a huge donation to your favorite charity (we hope it’s American Red Cross!).
1. Go to http://twitter.com
2. Follow prompts to set up an account
3. Once you’re in, you have 140 characters to show your love and convince Hugh Jackman that his money should go to us
4. Tell him by typing @RealHughJackman followed by your inspiring endorsementHere’s what others have said:
et1490: @RealHughJackman The American Red Cross gives assistance during times of disaster but they also hold regular blood drives that save lives
BlueParakeet: @RealHughJackman American Red Cross.Lost >1/2 of our staff;hurricane season round corner.Donate now and save lives. http://www.redcross.org.
kristianakocis: @RealHughJackman The Red Cross is a humanitarian NGO that is 96% led by volunteers and supported by people like YOU. Make a difference today
SkiErin: @RealHughJackman provide assistance to military families, international tracing and disaster services FREE to all clients.American Red Cross
pship: @RealHughJackman The American Red Cross helps in disasters or when you need lifesaving blood. Volunteers turn donors compassion into action.
kamichat: @RealHughJackman If my house burned down today I would 1) call Mom 2) call the Red Cross Map: http://tinyurl.com/cazkpw
Army Wives Lend a Hand..
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Photo caption: Drew Fuller and Terry Serpico took a break from their role on the television show Army Wives to lend a hand to the American Red Cross. Drew and Terry helped the Red Cross feed approximately 5,000 soldiers and their families at the deployment ceremony for the 30th Heavy Combat Brigade of the North Carolina National Guard in Fayetteville, NC. Photo by Claire Sale / American Red Cross
More photos of these two in action
Believe it or not, these handsome guys are army wives!
Okay, maybe not EXACTLY. But Drew Fuller and Terry Serpico really do star on Lifetime’s Army Wives and they’re nice guys to boot.
Today, the duo took a break from their roles and helped the Red Cross provide food and drinks to approximately 5,000 soldiers and their families at the deployment ceremony for the 30th Heavy Combat Brigade Team of the North Carolina National Guard in Fayetteville, NC.
They were there to help the Red Cross as we fulfill our mission to support our men and women in the Armed Forces and their families.
Learned more about our Services to the Armed Forces.
A Word on the Measles Outbreak in the US
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
(From Red Cross Chat)
Watch a video related to this here.The following update on the Measles outbreak in the US this week is by Athalia Christie, Sr. Technical Advisor for American Red Cross.
This week, we were remindedthat although measles was eliminated from the Americas in 2002, the unvaccinated are still at risk.
Six people in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania contracted the highly-contagious disease from an infected Indian traveler. An adult male, who contracted measles during a visit to China, spread the disease to at least one adult and an infant in Montgomery County, Maryland upon his return.
Parents, living in the United States, have a choice whether to vaccinate their children. What they fail to realize is that until families everywhere have the opportunity to immunize their children, ours will face the threat of contracting this preventable disease.
If an unvaccinated person travels to a country where measles is still endemic or comes in contact with an infected visitor from such a country, they may be exposed to measles and become ill.
The Measles Initiative is a partnership – led by the American Red Cross, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the United Nations Foundation, UNICEF and the World Health Organization – committed to addressing this issue. The first step is to reduce measles deaths globally by 90 percent (between 2000 and 2010), which can be achieved by hosting mass vaccination campaigns and strengthening immunization services.
We make the safe and effective measles vaccine available in many developing countries where poverty, poor health systems and a lack of information make it difficult for families to secure preventative medical care.
The work is carried out by local health workers and Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers who create temporary vaccination posts, visit schools and travel door-to-door, ensuring that every child receives a measles vaccination.
Since 2001, the Measles Initiative has supported immunization campaigns in more than 60 countries, vaccinating more than 600 million children. Through these efforts, global measles mortality was reduced by 74 percent (2000-2007).
But as this week’s outbreaks show, the impressive global gains are not enough.
Red Cross helps feed more than 12,000 at deployment
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
(picture courtesy of Claire Sale/American Red Cross)
Watch a video and read the story on News 14.com:Five volunteers from the Greater Carolinas Chapter of the American Red Cross went to Fayetteville on Monday to assist with a lage-scale deployment of the National Guard. When the North Carolina National Guard asked the Red Cross for help in feeding family members of soldiers at a deployment ceremony, the Red Cross offered a lending hand. Working with the National Guard and several donors, the Red Cross will be feeding 5,000 troops from the North Carolina National Guard and approximately 12,000 family members.
Soldiers prepare to deploy with celebration
By: Gavin MacRoberts (News 14)FAYETTEVILLE—Family and friends will gather at the Crown Coliseum in Fayetteville on Tuesday as thousands of soldiers from the 30th Heavy Brigade Combat Unit prepare to deploy to Iraq.
The American Red Cross will be on hand for the event to feed the more than 12,000 soldiers and family members during the Hail and Farewell ceremony. The last time the brigade deployed to Iraq was in 2004.
Guest speakers include Gov. Bev Perdue, the secretary of the Army, the chief of staff for the U.S. Army and the chief of the National Guard Bureau.
The 30th is the largest brigade in the North Carolina National Guard, with more than 4,000 soldiers deploying to Iraq. The brigade also includes units from West Virginia and Colorado.
The brigade team just returned from training at Fort Irwin in California.
Red Cross reuintes family during emergency situation
Thursday, April 09, 2009
Can you imagine your baby having life-saving heart surgery, and you are hundreds of miles away?
This was just the scenario Army Specialist “Rory”* found himself in a few weeks ago while he was deployed to Camp Shelby, Miss., with the local National Guard unit preparing for an overseas tour of duty. Rory and “Natasha’s” baby boy, “Sean,” was born nine months ago with a life-threatening heart condition. In March, he was transported to Levine’s Children Hospital in Charlotte for surgery.
Sean’s young mother needed desperately to have Rory return home to Wingate, N.C., to help the family through this crisis and to be there with his son. Within hours of making contact with the Union County Chapter of the American Red Cross, Sean’s commanding officer received the urgent Red Cross message verifying the need for the emergency presence of the soldier back home. Rory returned home immediately, providing an important source of support for baby and Mom.
Baby Sean suffered a stroke one week after the surgery, but the young soldier was able to stay an additional week with his child to see him through the setback. Fortunately, Sean’s outlook is much better now, and he is recovering in the arms of his mother, who expressed her gratitude to the American Red Cross in helping to reunite Sean and his father during this critical time.
(*Names changed to protect our clients’ confidentiality.)Find out more about our Services to the Armed Forces.
- Malaria kills nearly 1 million people every year
- Washing our hands. This task doesn’t have to be a bore. In fact, humming a complete renditon of “Row Row Row Your Boat” or “Happy Birthay” while washing willl not only entertain your stall mates, but also ensure that you’ve lathered long enough to get rid of most germs.