Guy Triano: Regional CEO of American Red Cross Eastern Pennsylvania, discussed the chapter, one of the nation’s largest, which covers 17 counties and over 6.5 million people, in areas ranging from the Poconos to the shore.  He discussed the disaster services they provide and how they see it all, from flooding and mud in the mountains to hurricane damage at the shore communities.  We discussed how disaster can strike anyone within the region, through fire, flooding and man-made disasters including chemical spills and train derailments and how the ARC takes care of not just the victims, but also the emergency responders.   The American Red Cross provides emergency food and shelter to displaced persons, counseling services, even long-tern residence in their Red Cross House, the first of its kind.  Guy discussed evacuation procedures and sheltering in place and reminded listeners that they have to be prepared and they have to follow emergency directions.  He talked about the ARC ‘Pillowcase Project,’ emergency preparedness education for children where they decorate a pillowcase with their contact info and family escape plans to fill with their evacuation needs.  The program serves as a ‘conversation starter’ for families to plan for disaster, reminding us that we are in the middle of hurricane season.   Guy also spoke on their ‘Sound the Alarm, Save a Life’ campaign where they go door-to-door with free, LED smoke detectors.

Guy, former director of Blood Services, also addressed the ongoing crisis situation in the area’s blood supply and asked listeners to please donate; he discussed the need for whole blood, plasma and platelets and who can give.

We also discussed training programs offered, including CPR, First Aid and Lifeguard certification.  The ARC is also the official link to military active duty and their family at home, able to relay messages and bring home military for family emergencies.

Finally, Guy called for volunteers, they are 80% volunteer driven, and donations.

Guy encourages everyone to download the ARC APP – it gives emergency information, blood services