Summer Blockbuster Survival Guide

By Daniel Steffy, Intern

Alien attacks? Zombie apocalypses? Or even a killer ape take over? In the case these summer Hollywood Blockbuster disasters become a reality, the Red Cross has you covered with a plethora of survival tips and resources. 

The Edge of Tomorrow: Alien Attacks

In the unfortunate event of an alien attack on planet earth, we learned from the movie we can count on Tom Cruise to save the day. When aliens invade they bring with them fire and havoc. They scorch our beloved planets surface, spreading wildfires and burning down countless homes. So just what should we normal, everyday citizens do while we wait for Mr. Cruise to swoop in and rescue us?

Don't panic, just turn to the guidance of trained experts at your local Red Cross. Make certain your home and family are prepared and educated for the martin's hostile heat with the Red Cross fire preparedness checklist.

Or stay one step ahead of the fast spreading flames with the Red Cross Wildfire App. Using these fire safety tips you should be able to avoid the aliens path and survive the fire and chaos until Tom Cruise can finish the job and save our planet from the alien attackers!

Maggie: Zombie apocalypses

With Arnold Schwarzenegger busy trying to care for his daughter who got freshly infected with the zombie virus, who is going to care for you during the zombie apocalypses? Make sure you can survive on your own in a chemical emergency such as a zombie outbreak.

Obviously a zombie apocalypse brings with it a variety of survival challenges, but take a minute to review the Red Cross's tips for survival in a chemical emergency.

Using this knowledge your next goal should be to escape the outbreak and make it safely to a shelter. Once there, you can resupply your survival kit and tend to any medical injuries. The Red Cross Shelter App will provide you with detailed maps and the location of the nearest functional shelter. Download it now. Good luck!

Rise of the Planet of the Apes: Killer Ape Take over

When man pushes super smart massive Apes too far, it results in them forming an army and setting out on a quest to conquer the world. Just like in the movie, it's safe to say our survival would be in jeopardy. After years of locking apes up in zoo's they surely won't be happy with the human race as a whole.

While killer apes present all sorts of threats, the knocking down and swinging from power lines causing major power outages is the first of many. Again you might find yourself hunkered down waiting for aid. But just how ready are you to survive in a boarded up home with no power?

Check out the Red Cross power outagepreparedness checklist to ensure your ready for the challenge and can stay in hiding from the angry apes.

Also, don't forget about your beloved furry pets amidst the horde of giant monkeys. If your pet becomes injured while your on lock down in a powerless home, their survival depends on you! Download the Red Cross Pet First Aid App and protect your pets from anything, including giant angry apes!

And of course, besides these three extreme movie scenarios, life's many challenges in general present the need to be able to perform basic CPR/AED, as well as always having a survival kit at the ready. In the event someone you know is injured or a unexpected disaster rolls in, you’ll be able to respond with confidence. Let the Red Cross help train you to besurvival ready for anything! Also, take a look at our Red Cross survival kits to purchase one or compare it to your current kit!

The Reason You Need the Wildfire App: Red Flag Warnings

Photo courtesy of the National Weather Service.

By Kassidy Ketron, Intern

In the South Plains it’s not uncommon for Red Flag warnings, especially during the drought.

A red flag warning, according to National Weather Service, means that conditions are occurring or will occur which could lead to the development of large and dangerous fires.

Because of the dry climate, we think it’s important you know what to do in case there is a wildfire near your or your loved ones.

The American Red Cross’ Wildfire App for iPhone and Android is a great way to do that. It’s features include:

• Step-by-step instructions let you know what to do even before/during/after wildfires, even if there is no data connectivity.
• Wildfire News section with state-by-state links to all fire-fighting agencies’ Twitter feeds and websites ensuring the most recent developments on current wildfires.
• Click-to-call access to your state’s 511 network for the latest traffic information in case of evacuation.
• Let family and friends know you are okay with the customizable “I’m Safe” alert for Facebook, Twitter, email and text.
• Find open Red Cross shelters in your area when you need help.
• Stay safe when the lights are out with the Toolkit, including a strobe light, flashlight and audible alert functions.
• Prepare for the worst by learning how to assemble an emergency kit for your family in the event of power outage or evacuation.
• Earn badges that you can share with your friends and show off your wildfire knowledge with interactive quizzes.

Empower your family to stay safe and remain calm in an emergency by learning how to make and practice your family disaster plan.

• Meet with your family or household members.
• Discuss how to prepare and respond to emergencies that are most likely to happen where you live, learn, work and play.
• Identify responsibilities for each member of your household and plan to work together as a team.
• If a family member is in the military, plan how you would respond if they were deployed.
• Plan what to do in case you are separated during an emergency
• Plan what to do if you have to evacuate 

It’s never a bad idea to get ready for the wildest weather, especially if you live in West Texas, so download the Wildfire app and stay safe!