Red Cross Volunteers Ready to Respond to Disasters in Sumner County, Tennessee

Sharon driving an emergency
response vehicle (ERV)

The American Red Cross Disaster Action Team (DAT) in Sumner County, Tennessee is an excellent example of the type of work the Red Cross does when there is any type of disaster. Whether it is a single family home fire, large apartment building fire, tornado, flood or highway accident the DAT team is ready to assist people in need. Once a call comes in, whatever team members are available are almost always ready to mobilize within two hours, any time of the day or night, and for as long as they are needed.

Presently, there are only seven members of the Sumner County DAT team, but they are a committed team of volunteers, including retirees and people with full-time jobs. Even though they have different backgrounds and ages, they all have in common a desire to help others who have experienced some type of tragedy. When they arrive on the scene, they quickly evaluate what has happened and what is needed.  Many victims have just lost their homes and are in need of a place to stay, food, water, clothes, medicine, clean-up supplies, financial support and often just want to know that someone cares about them.

Sharon Voss has only been a Sumner County DAT team member for about 18 months but during that time she has been busy responding to fire and flood victims in the county. She says she is ready to go whenever a call comes in, whether it is during the day or the middle of the night. Plus, she went to Florida after hurricane Irma and then to California during the wildfires in the Napa area as a disaster responder. She has also worked with the local fire department to install free smoke alarms in homes without any because the Red Cross doesn’t just respond after an emergency, but they also want to prevent them from happening.

Sharon said, “I really enjoy volunteering as a Red Cross DAT member and find it very stimulating because I can make a positive difference in people’s lives, at a time when they need it the most.”

If you'd like to become a DAT team member in your county, sign up to become a volunteer on our website.

Story by American Red Cross volunteer, Peter Fechheimer

Regional Executive Corner with Joel R. Sullivan - January 2018

The New Year is here and many of us are making resolutions about things we want to do in 2018. Losing weight, quitting smoking, etc. are great things to want to accomplish, but to make a real difference to yourself and your loved ones, resolve to get your household prepared for disasters in the coming year.

Families need to plan on what they should do if a disaster occurs. Whether the disaster is small – a home fire – or large – a hurricane or tornado – families need to know what emergencies are most likely to happen where they live, learn, work and play. You can make a difference in your community by knowing what to do when disaster strikes. It’s just a few short steps away:

1. Get a kit. If you’ve ever fumbled to find a flashlight during a blackout, you know what it feels like to be unprepared. Use a downloadable checklist to make it easy to get your emergency preparedness kit ready. You should include:

• Three-day supply of non-perishable food and water—one gallon per person, per day for drinking and hygiene purposes
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit, medications and medical items
• Copies of all important documents (proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
• Extra cash

2. Make a plan. Talk with household members about what you would do during emergencies. Plan what to do in case you are separated, and choose two places to meet - one right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency such as a fire, and another outside your neighborhood in case you cannot return home or are asked to evacuate.

• Choose a contact person from out of the area and make sure all household members have this person’s phone number and email address. It may be easier to call long distance or text if local phone lines are overloaded or out of service.
• Tell everyone in the household where emergency information and supplies are kept.
• Practice evacuating your home twice a year. Drive your planned evacuation route and plot alternate routes on a map in case main roads are impassable.
• Don’t forget your pets. If you must evacuate, make arrangements for your animals. Keep a phone list of “pet friendly” motels/hotels and animal shelters that are along your evacuation routes.

3. Be informed. Know the risks where you live, work, learn and play.

• If you live or travel often to areas near a fault line, learn how to prepare and what to do during an earthquake. If summer brings to mind not just beaches and picnics but also tropical storms and hurricanes, arm yourself with information about what to do in case one occurs. Remember that emergencies like fires and blackouts can happen anywhere, so everyone should be prepared for them.
• Find out how you would receive information from local officials in the event of an emergency.
• Learn first aid and CPR/AED so that you have the skills to respond in an emergency before help arrives, especially during a disaster when emergency responders may not be as available. Sign up for a class here.

4. Download our apps. Download the free Red Cross Emergency App to receive emergency alerts and information about what to do in case of a disaster, as well as locations of shelters. The Red Cross First Aid App puts information in your fingertips on how to help. Parents can also download the Red Cross Monster Guard App for a fun way to teach children what to do in case of a flood or a hurricane. Users can find all of the Red Cross apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.

Following these simple steps will ensure that you are prepared and ready to overcome challenges a disaster presents.  Best wishes for a great new year ahead!

Get Ready: Resolve to Prepare for Emergencies this Year

The New Year is here and many of us have made resolutions about things we want to do in 2018. Losing weight, quitting smoking, etc. are great things to want to accomplish, but to make a real difference to yourself and your loved ones, resolve to get your household prepared for disasters in the coming year.

Families need to plan on what they should do if a disaster occurs. Whether the disaster is small – a home fire – or large – a hurricane or tornado – families need to know what emergencies are most likely to happen where they live, learn, work and play. You can make a difference in your community by knowing what to do when disaster strikes. It’s just a few short steps away:

1. Get a kit. If you’ve ever fumbled to find a flashlight during a blackout, you know what it feels like to be unprepared. Use a downloadable checklist to make it easy to get your emergency preparedness kit ready. You should include:

• • Three-day supply of non-perishable food and water—one gallon per person, per day for drinking and hygiene purposes
• • Battery-powered or hand crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
• • Flashlight and extra batteries
• • First aid kit, medications and medical items
• • Copies of all important documents (proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
• • Extra cash

2. Make a plan. Talk with household members about what you would do during emergencies. Plan what to do in case you are separated, and choose two places to meet - one right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency such as a fire, and another outside your neighborhood in case you cannot return home or are asked to evacuate.

• • Choose a contact person from out of the area and make sure all household members have this person’s phone number and email address. It may be easier to call long distance or text if local phone lines are overloaded or out of service.
• • Tell everyone in the household where emergency information and supplies are kept.
• • Practice evacuating your home twice a year. Drive your planned evacuation route and plot alternate routes on a map in case main roads are impassable.
• • Don’t forget your pets. If you must evacuate, make arrangements for your animals. Keep a phone list of “pet friendly” motels/hotels and animal shelters that are along your evacuation routes.

3. Be informed. Know the risks where you live, work, learn and play.

• • If you live or travel often to areas near a fault line, learn how to prepare and what to do during an earthquake. If summer brings to mind not just beaches and picnics but also tropical storms and hurricanes, arm yourself with information about what to do in case one occurs. Remember that emergencies like fires and blackouts can happen anywhere, so everyone should be prepared for them.
• • Find out how you would receive information from local officials in the event of an emergency.
• • Learn first aid and CPR/AED so that you have the skills to respond in an emergency before help arrives, especially during a disaster when emergency responders may not be as available. Sign up for a class here.

4. Download our apps. Download the free Red Cross Emergency App to receive emergency alerts and information about what to do in case of a disaster, as well as locations of shelters. The Red Cross First Aid App puts information in your fingertips on how to help. Parents can also download the Red Cross Monster Guard App for a fun way to teach children what to do in case of a flood or a hurricane. Users can find all of the Red Cross apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.

Letter from East Tennessee Executive Director, Sharon Hudson - January 2018

Happy New Year!

It’s a new year and a time of new beginnings. As we’re making resolutions, consider your personal health and safety. The Red Cross responded to historic disasters in 2017. Let’s reflect on the lessons learned and make preparedness a priority in 2018. Being prepared isn’t as time consuming as you think. Become Red Cross Ready in three easy steps:

1. Get a Kit—include essential supplies such as water, non-perishable food, flashlight, batteries, first aid kit, personal documents, medications, pet supplies and cash.
2. Make a Plan—create and practice an emergency plan so that your family will know what to do in a crisis.
3. Be Informed—understand which disasters are likely in your area.

A preventable disaster that occurs too frequently in East Tennessee are home fires. Unfortunately, chapter staff and volunteers responded to several home fires this holiday season. Simply having a functional smoke alarm installed will cut the risk of death in a home fire by FIFTY PERCENT. East Tennessee will take part in the national Sound the Alarm, Save a Life campaign later this spring. Via Sound the Alarm, the Red Cross has already installed over one million smoke alarms, saving over 300 lives. Contact us to learn how you can donate, volunteer and support our efforts to make East Tennessee families safer. Be Ready in 2018—prepare yourself and your loved ones—start at home.

Letter from Heart of Tennessee Executive Director, Kathy Ferrell - January 2018

Heart of Tennessee Volunteers:

Happy 2018!

My hope is that each of you had the opportunity to celebrate the holiday season, Christmas and the New Year with those you love. As we begin 2018, I’m incredibly excited about what we accomplished in my first five months and what we will accomplish this year.

In addition to living our mission through fire/flood response, smoke alarm installations, and The Pillowcase Project, we are focused on our Heroes Breakfast. This event will be held Wednesday, February 21st, and will honor Dr. Sidney McPhee and Middle Tennessee State University. Dr. McPhee is a supporter of our work and has his own Red Cross story as a shelter partner for hurricane evacuees. Last year’s honoree, John Hood, will introduce Dr. McPhee and share some highlights from our sheltering experience. I hope you have the opportunity to attend; we will forward an invitation and details to each of you. This event serves as our signature fundraiser, allowing us the opportunity to raise the dollars that we need to carry out our mission.

T.S. Eliot wisely wrote, “For last year’s words belong to last year’s language and next year’s words away another voice.  To make an end is to make a beginning.” This resonates with me as we are closing the chapter on the past and looking to the future. Thanks to your service, the future is very bright for Heart of Tennessee. I look forward to a phenomenal year with you!

With gratitude,
Kathy Ferrell
Executive Director, Heart of Tennessee Chapter

Letter from Southeast Tennessee Executive Director, Julia Wright - January 2018

It’s that time of year.  We have taken the decorations down, celebrated the beginning of a New Year, and made our resolutions for 2018. While many of us typically make resolutions like exercising more, losing weight and eating healthier, this year, consider making a resolution to make your families safer.

Here are some quick tips to get you started with Winter Storm Preparedness:  

• Assemble an Emergency Preparedness Kit to include winter-specific supplies for both home and vehicle that include a flashlight, first aid supplies, warm outerwear, water resistant boots, a blanket and extra warm clothing.  Sand or non-clumping kitty litter is good to have on hand in case your car is stuck or to help make walkways less slippery.  Additionally, your home kit should have essential medications, canned food and can opener, bottled water, and a battery powered radio with extra batteries in case of a power outage.

• Heed Storm Warnings:  A winter storm WATCH means winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36 to 48 hours. People in a watch area should review their winter storm plans and stay informed about weather conditions via NOAA weather radio or local radio or television stations. A winter storm WARNING means that life-threatening, severe winter conditions have begun or will begin within 24 hours. Individuals in a warning area should take precautions immediately.

• Preparing Your Home and Car: If you heat with natural gas, be sure to identify the location of your meter and vents. It's important to keep them clear during storms and to ensure they are not damaged. Winterize your vehicle and keep the gas tank full, which helps prevent the fuel line from freezing. Make sure your home is properly insulated by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to help keep cold air out. Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year. Running water, even at a trickle, helps to prevent pipes from freezing.

Winter weather has a way of sneaking up on us, so now is a good time to be taking steps to reduce any weather-related issues.  To learn more on how to prepare you family visit www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/winter-storm

--Julia

Letter from Tennessee River Executive Director, Katy Hagstrom - January 2018

As we enter 2018, we should first reflect on the success that together we have accomplished as a chapter.

102 Households assisted

436 Service to the Armed Forces cases

1,645 Individuals reached through Preparedness Health and Safety classes

19486 Volunteer hours

150 Smoke alarms installed

164 Children reached through The Pillowcase Project

19 Volunteers who deployed for national disasters (Deployments to Texas, Louisiana, Georgia, Florida, California, and Puerto Rico)

(July- December 2017)

In addition to our accomplishments in 2017, we are already seeing growth in 2018! Please help me in welcoming Charles Thomas, our new Mass Care Coordinator, and Marvin Williams, our new Logistics Coordinator. Both volunteers are eager to expand the reach of our chapter and we are very excited to have them as part of the team!

In the month of January, the cold weather continues to bear down on Middle Tennessee and we want to remind everyone to practice fire safety. We will be hosting a Home Fire Preparedness Campaign on January 20, 2018 and would like to invite everyone to join us in making our community a safer place.

Happy New Year!

-Katy Hagstrom

Heart of Tennessee Volunteer Spotlight, Debra and Art Fuller - January 2018

The Heart of Tennessee Volunteer Spotlight this month is on the husband and wife team of Debra and Art Fuller. Debra and Art have been married 12 1/2 years and have 5 children between them. They are grandparents to 14 (last one will be born January 2018). The children are scattered around the country: two in Oklahoma, one in Pennsylvania, and two here in Middle Tennessee. This means trips around the country which is something that Debra and Art enjoy doing. 

Debra was a military wife for many years and was employed by the Federal Government as a civilian and has been retired for 10 years. Art was also a federal government employee for 42 years working with the Air Force, Army, and Defense Logistics Agency.  He moved around in the job, eventually settling in Tennessee working at Arnold Air Force Base.  As part of his job he was the Equal Employment Counselor, helping many in that capacity. Art is a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) volunteer to help oversee the needs of at risk children.  He has been on the board of the Murfreesboro Soccer Club for about 20 years, becoming involved when his own children were playing soccer. Together, Art and Debra are involved with the VA every Wednesday through a ministry in their church. 

Good Friday 2009 found Debra in the only room on the second floor of their home that had not been carried off by the tornado in Murfreesboro. Debra was saved by taking shelter in the bathroom. The Red Cross came, offered help to the victims and fed all the workers. From that time on Debra wanted to join the Red Cross because of how they interacted with the victims and helpers. It took her 8 years to volunteer, the catalyst being the hurricanes in Texas and Florida. As she says, you don’t know what comes knocking on your door, you need to be ready to help. Debra became a Red Cross Volunteer in September 2017. She joined with a smile on her face and willingness to work.

Art, who was not at home when the Good Friday 2009 tornado hit, saw Debra’s excitement when she joined the Red Cross and decided to sign up also.

Debra and Art are both certified emergency response vehicle (ERV) drivers for the chapter along with Disaster Action Team (DAT) responders, shelter volunteers, and disaster responders. In December, they headed up a crew to install smoke alarms in a Smyrna trailer park. Their work was greatly appreciated by the residents.

For the future, Art and Debra plan to travel and to continue in their many roles at Red Cross. Their words of wisdom are “get out and do it” and “get off the couch”. If you do something for someone else, it will put a smile on their face and yours as well. The Heart of Tennessee Red Cross is happy to have them with us. Thank you for your service to our Chapter and Middle Tennessee. 

Letter from Mid-West Tennessee Executive Director, David Hicks - January 2018

Happy New Year, Mid-West Tennessee team!! I hope that each of you had a fantastic holiday season with your respective families and enjoyed the “less stress” time (hopefully!) that came with it. As I’m writing this article, I’m feeling very nostalgic about the “year that was” and all that we experienced as a chapter during it. I’m especially appreciative of those of you who are newer volunteers that I didn’t even know a year ago (and are now vital parts of the services our chapter provides and I consider personal friends)!

As we look ahead to the year to come, we all ask ourselves what challenges and victories await us in 2018 as a chapter. I feel the more important question we should ask ourselves is are we prepared as a chapter for whatever may come our way over the next 12 months. I’m so thankful for the commitment level and dedication I’ve seen from so many of you in our volunteer family over the last 6-8 months to pursue any and all training opportunities and discussion sessions we’ve provided as a chapter. You are certainly better equipped and prepared to serve your chosen positions and roles. Let’s keep it up as we enter the new year!

Lastly, thanks to so many of you for the concerted effort I’ve seen to help create a more positive environment in our chapter over the last few months. As many of you know through frank discussions and meetings with me and Heather, we’d gotten in a “rut” of sorts as a chapter family and become prone to look for areas to criticize in the services of our chapter (while failing to offset it with earned praise and encouragement). I’ve seen a SIGNIFICANT amount of growth in this area and couldn’t be prouder of the efforts of so many of our volunteers in this regard! I feel that this has not only benefited all of you who are veterans in your service to the chapter, but it has also enhanced the experience of our newer volunteers and made them feel more welcomed and appreciated than in times past. Let’s continue to build on this culture while in the office and out in the field of service!
I want to say, once again, what a privilege it has been for me to serve as your Chapter Executive over the last year and a half! Let’s approach 2018 with eyes wide open to our tasks and arms extended to those in need across the 14 counties that we serve!

Volunteer of the Month, Southeast Tennessee: Wanda Clark - January 2018

Cell phones changed our lives. They’re changing Red Cross volunteer work, too.

Wanda Clark, Followup Casework Coordinator for the Southeast Tennessee chapter Disaster Assistance Team (DAT) Captain for Marion and Grundy counties, knows this better than almost anyone.

Since July 1, Clark has given an extraordinary 744 hours of volunteer service to the Red Cross. “We all want somebody to be there when it’s zero degrees outside and our house has burned to the ground,” she said. “No matter what time of day or night it is. I want to be there, always willing to give.”

Most of her time is spent on her iPhone, she said, advising, informing, referring or virtually hugging survivors and caseworkers across Southeast Tennessee’s 10-county region.

Clark is no stranger to disaster relief via portable device. She joined the Red Cross in 2008, when she was living with her family in Valdez, Alaska. “I am extremely adventurous,” she said. “And I love the snow!” In 2014, she and her family returned to her native Southeast Tennessee. She manages most of her duties using an iPhone 6, from her Grundy County home,

Modern technology, unfortunately, does not solve every problem. “I get calls every day from people who are down and out.” Clark said. “I want to say: ‘I can help you with this!’ But unfortunately, we don’t have programs for everything.”

Despite its challenges, Clark is devoted to helping people in need through her Red Cross service. “I want to make sure people have a place to go, and they know that someone cares; even if all I can give is a smile over the phone, to me that’s huge. I’m very passionate about it. I just get joy from helping others.”

Kingsport Centennial – “Women of Impact”

As a part of the Kingsport Centennial, The Junior League of Kingsport accepted nominations and compiled a list of 133 women who have made a significant impact during the first 100 years of Kingsport’s history.  These 133 women represent many other women who have through dedication and hard work helped make Kingsport a great place to live, work, and raise a family. The “Women of Impact” list includes individuals, both living and deceased, from a broad range of organizations that have influenced Kingsport with contributions encompassing community service, professional, religious, educational and healthcare arenas.

Individuals from the “Women of Impact” listing that we know played a part in local Red Cross history in Kingsport include two staff members and twenty-four volunteers.

Lula Lee Dobyns, an early Kingsport resident, was vice chair of the Board of Directors in 1917 and signed the original charter for the local chapter. Ella Dixon was the Executive Director of the chapter from 1942 – 1957. Genevieve Shivell and Vivien Parker were in the first class of Nurses Aides trained at Holston Valley Hospital to assist the nursing staff during and after World War II. 

Christine Triebe served on the board of directors and as a Red Cross nurse receiving the National Nursing Service Award presented at the National Red Cross Convention in 1959.  Emily Childress, Elizabeth Ann Hay, and Deb Shurger volunteered as Water Safety Instructors. Barbara Gipe, Jane Harris, Rosalee Sites, and Charlotte Hoover were Registered Nurses volunteering for the Red Cross Chapter.

Charlotte Hoover also served on the Board of Directors and became the first female chapter board chairman and a member of the Nursing Committee of the National Organization. Jane Harris became Executive Director in 1981 and served in this role until 2008.

Susan Pond, Peggy Smith, Peggy Turner, and Emily Childress volunteered in Red Cross school clinics.  Doris Bush, Linda Calvert, Emily Childress, Martha Lawson, Carolyn Pierson Cook, Peggy Turner, Brenda White Wright, Leigh Ann Hoover, Diana Meredith, Jane Crawford, Elise Bourne, and Nancy Ledford and Mary Margaret Denton, all served on the Board of Directors or in another leadership role.  

Letter from Northeast Tennessee Executive Director, Glenda Bobalik - January 2018

Happy New Year!

What an exciting start to 2018 we are having.  I haven’t been this cold in years!

We begin the year in a celebratory spirit not just because of holidays, good times, and good food but because we are at the 6-month mark in our “Red Cross year” and we are over the 50% mark on our goals!  Now that is starting the New Year in the right way.  Congratulations to our team!

I was especially impressed with the number of volunteer hours you have recorded.  Last year, this was a struggle for us all but we ended 2017 with 8,810 for our six month point with an annual goal of 16,773.  Thank you so very much for taking time to enter the hours so we have a record of the generous donation of time that you make repeatedly.

During the last month, I have talked with several of you about things we could do to improve your volunteer experience.  One theme that keeps recurring is a request that we explain “why”. We are now making the commitment to taking the time to explain why things are a certain way.  In return, my request is that you ask us if we don’t remember to explain.  Let’s make this a year of transparency in Northeast Tennessee.

Another theme that threads through our conversations is a request for help with the technology side of our processes now.  We will have computers available at meetings this year.  They will be there so that you can show us where your challenges are and we can try to help immediately.   Notice the word try.  We are sometimes just as frustrated as you are but together we can conquer anything!  Again, I have a request of you.  Take a moment and remember the frustrations we often had before technology changed our processes.  Anyone remember the multiple copy disbursing order that was so much fun as you filled out one for each separate item?  Sometimes we forget the challenges that we had before those facing us now.

My resolution this year is to continue to talk with you and ask how we can improve your experience. I care about the value that you receive because I know the incredible value of what you give.

Again, Happy New Year!
Glenda

Holiday Cards Delivered to the VA Hospital Express Gratitude

Kathy Ferrell, Katie Schafer and Valerie Clarke are by a VA Christmas tree.

The American Red Cross was busy a few days before Christmas this year spreading holiday cheer at the VA Hospital in Murfreesboro as they continued the Holiday Mail for Heroes program. With big smiles on their faces Red Cross representatives Valerie Clarke, Kathy Ferrell and Katie Schafer walked the halls at the VA Hospital handing out hand-written cards to nurses, doctors, workers and most importantly, veterans.  Plus, some veterans who don’t have dietary issues were given care boxes of goodies donated by Loveless Cafe.

It was fun to watch the veteran’s expressions as Valerie and Kathy entered their rooms and said in a very friendly voice, “Hi, Merry Christmas, I have something for you.” As they handed out the cards and gift boxes, the veterans seemed genuinely happy to receive them.  Some of them don’t get many visitors so they were excited for the visit and wanted to spend some time talking.

Kathy Ferrell and Valerie Clarke enter
 a veteran’s room to deliver holiday cards.

It was a very enjoyable experience for both the veterans and the volunteers.  But it is also important to remember, as Kathy, the Executive Director of the Heart of Tennessee Red Cross office in Murfreesboro, pointed out, “Some people think the Red Cross only responds during times of disasters, but this is an example of the type of work we do all year.”

Volunteering for the Red Cross with the Holiday Mail for Heroes program is very gratifying and more volunteers are encouraged to get involved.  If you are stressed out this time of year, or have the holiday blues, volunteering at the VA Hospital is a great way to lift your spirits. To get involved with our Service to the Armed Forces or Holiday Mail for Heroes program, please contact your local chapter to volunteer.

Photos and Story by Peter Fechheimer, Red Cross Volunteer

Red Cross Responds to Nearly 60% More Home Fires in First Days of 2018 Than in 2017

In the first nine days of the new year, the American Red Cross responded to nearly 60 percent more home fires than in 2017.

Red Cross volunteers across the country have already responded to 3,150 home fires in the first nine days of the year, compared to 2,003 fires in 2017. Some of this may be attributed to the recent string of dangerously cold days, as colder temperatures are often linked to a rise in home fires. Heating, holiday decorations, winter storms and candles all contribute to an increased risk of fire during the winter months, according to the National Fire Protection Association and the U.S. Fire Administration.

After a home fire, a Red Cross volunteer is often among the first on the scene – offering emotional support, helping those affected to find a place to stay and assisting with recovery. As of January 9, the Red Cross has already opened 4,400 cases to help a total of 12,500 people get back on their feet after home fires in 2018.

WHAT CAN PEOPLE DO? The Red Cross is asking every household in America to take steps to help save lives. Find out more here. In addition to preparing your home and family, volunteers are needed in many areas to help install smoke alarms in at-risk communities. People can contact their local Red Cross chapter to get involved.

Follow these tips to help prevent a fire in their home:

• Keep all potential sources of fuel – paper, clothing, bedding, curtains or rugs – at least three feet away from sources of heat.
• Never leave portable heaters and fireplaces unattended.
• Place space heaters on a level, hard and nonflammable surface. Keep children and pets away from space heaters. Look for space heaters that shut off automatically if they are to fall over.
• Never use a cooking range or oven to heat your home.
• Keep fire in your fireplace by using a glass or metal fire screen.

HOME FIRE CAMPAIGN SAVES 332 LIVES The Red Cross responds to as many as 64,000 disasters every year and most of these are home fires. Sadly, seven times a day someone in this country dies in a home fire.

To combat these statistics, the Red Cross launched its Home Fire Campaign in 2014, focusing on installing free smoke alarms in neighborhoods at high risk for fires and teaching people about fire safety. Since the start of the campaign, the Red Cross and partners have installed more than 1 million smoke alarms and helped to save 332 lives.

The Red Cross depends on the generous support of the American public to fulfill its crucial mission. If someone would like to help, please consider making a donation today by visiting www.redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or texting the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 gift.

Safety Tips for Driving in Winter Weather Conditions

The Red Cross has steps people can follow to get their vehicles ready for winter travel as well as what do if caught in a winter storm.

GET YOUR VEHICLE READY FOR WINTER: Plan ahead. Have a mechanic check your tires, battery, brakes and antifreeze levels. Make sure your vehicle is ready for winter with a window scraper, shovel, kitty litter or sand in case you get stuck, extra clothes and 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, blankets and important documents or information you may need.

DRIVING IN WINTER: While the Red Cross encourages you to stay off the road if possible, if you have to drive in snow or freezing rain, follow these tips.

• Fill the vehicle’s gas tank and clean the lights and windows to help you see.

• Pay attention to the weather forecast. Before you leave, let someone know where you are going, the route you plan to take, and when you expect to get there. If your car gets stuck, help can be sent along your predetermined route.

• If you must drive, make sure everyone has their seat belts on and give your full attention to the road. Avoid distractions such as cell phones.

• Don’t follow other vehicles too closely. Sudden stops are difficult on snowy roadways.

• Don’t use cruise control when driving in winter weather.

• Don’t pass snow plows.

• Know that ramps, bridges and overpasses will freeze before roadways.

If you become stuck in the snow or icy conditions:

• Stay with the car. Do not try to walk to safety.

• Tie a brightly colored cloth (preferably red) to the antenna for rescuers to see.

• Don’t run your engine and heater constantly to help avoid running out of gas. Don’t use things like lights or the radio without the engine running so the battery doesn’t conk out.

• If you can, move your vehicle off the roadway. Stay with it – don’t abandon it. If you have to get out of your vehicle, use the side away from traffic.

• 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.

• Leave the overhead light on when the engine is running to help rescuers see the vehicle.

• Keep one window slightly open -- away from the blowing wind -- to let in air.

WEATHER ALERTS AND FIRST AID TIPS: People can download the Red Cross Emergency App for instant access to winter storm tips and 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.

Prevent Home Fires During Cold Weather

With cold temperatures there is often a rise in the number of home fires. Follow these tips to help prevent a fire in your home:

• Have furnaces, chimneys, fireplaces, wood and coal stoves inspected and cleaned before another winter of use.
  
• If using a space heater, look for a model that shuts off automatically if the heater falls over. Place the heater on a level, hard and nonflammable surface in the home.
  
• Keep all potential sources of fuel like paper, clothing, bedding, curtains or rugs at least three feet away from space heaters, stoves, or fireplaces.
  
• Portable heaters and fireplaces should never be left unattended. Turn off space heaters and make sure any embers in the fireplace are extinguished before going to bed or leaving home.
  
• Keep children and pets away from space heaters.
  
• Cut down on heating costs. Insulate the home by installing storm windows or covering the inside of windows with plastic to keep cold air out.
  
• Never use a cooking range or oven to heat your home.
  
• Keep fire in your fireplace by using a glass or metal fire screen large enough to catch sparks and rolling logs.
  
• Test batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
  
• Develop a fire escape plan and practice it with everyone who lives in the home.

Thawing Frozen Pipes

Cold weather can result in frozen water pipes for many. If you turn on a faucet and no water or 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 cannot 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.

In Memoriam – Virginia Forrest

Virginia Forrest, Knoxville, Tennessee, a 45-year volunteer with the East Tennessee American Red Cross, passed away recently.

She was an active volunteer with Service to Armed Forces (SAF) and the First Aid Station Team (FAST). Virginia held several different posts with SAF, including hosting different special events for veterans such as birthday parties at the Ben Atchley Veterans Home, annual Military Kids Serve Too days and Holiday Mail for Heroes, where she assisted every year. She was active with the Tennessee State Guard, where she proudly served our country for many years.

Virginia was a member of the FAST team. As an LPN, she worked with the Red Cross providing medical care to those in need whether it was at a University of Tennessee (UT) football game, a fire call, in a shelter, or for a special event like the eclipse in 2017. She was known for being one of the first to sign up for the UT games and other events and was always the one to fulfill a last-minute need.

In addition to SAF, Disaster Services and FAST, Virginia regularly spent time in the chapter talking with other volunteers and staff. It was her mission to make sure that the chapter kitchen was clean and had clean kitchen towels, wash cloths and anything else that was needed. She completed even those tasks with a smile on her face and an engaging personality.

The American Red Cross of East Tennessee will never forget her and the amazing impact she made on the staff, clients and volunteers.

(Left to right) Red Cross volunteers Bill Buchanan, Alan Sheets, Jacqueline Bridgeman and Virginia Forrest

American Red Cross Urges Caution Heating Homes as Weather Gets Colder

Heating Equipment is the Second Leading Cause of Fire Deaths

The American Red Cross responds to nearly 64,000 disasters a year -- one every eight minutes -- and most are home fires. As temperatures dip across Tennessee, the Red Cross urges families to be cautious when using space heaters and other heating sources, and to make a plan in case of a home fire. Heating sources are the second leading cause of home fire deaths, and fatal home fires increase during the winter months.

Heat sources such as space heaters, fireplaces or wood and coal stoves can pose a fire hazard, and fatal fires peak in the early morning hours when most people are sleeping. To reduce the risk of heating related fires, the Red Cross recommends the following tips:

·         All heaters need space. Keep children, pets and things that can burn (paper, matches, bedding, furniture, clothing, carpets, and rugs) at least three feet away from heating equipment.

·         Never leave a fire in the fireplace unattended, and use a glass or metal fire screen to keep fire and embers in the fireplace. 

·         Never use a cooking range or oven to heat your home.

·         Turn off portable space heaters every time you leave the room or go to sleep.

·         Have wood and coal stoves, fireplaces, and chimneys inspected annually by a professional, and cleaned if necessary.

·         If you must use a space heater, place it on a level, hard and nonflammable surface (such as ceramic tile floor), not on rugs, or carpets or near bedding or drapes. Plug power cords directly into outlets and never into an extension cord.

RED CROSS APPS People can learn how to help prevent a home fire and what to do if one occurs by downloading the Red Cross Emergency App. They can use the app’s Family Safe feature to help stay in touch with loved ones. Children can earn points and incentives in a fun, gaming environment while learning how to prevent a home fire and other emergencies in the Monster Guard: Prepare for Emergencies App. The First Aid App provides expert advice including what to do for burns, broken bones, and breathing and cardiac emergencies. The apps can be downloaded for free in app stores or at redcross.org/apps.

HOME FIRE CAMPAIGN Seven times a day someone in this country dies in a fire. The Red Cross has been working to reduce that number through its Home Fire Campaign, a multi-year effort to reduce the number of home fire deaths and injuries by 25 percent. Launched in October of 2014, the Red Cross and thousands of campaign partners have helped save many lives through the effort, as well as installing hundreds of thousands of smoke alarms in homes all across the country.

WHAT PEOPLE CAN DO People can visit redcross.org/homefires to find out more about how to protect themselves and their loved homes from fire. They can become a Red Cross volunteer by visiting redcross.org. They can also help by donating to Red Cross Disaster Relief by visiting redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or texting the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. Donations to Disaster Relief will be used to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small.