Two hours of your time can make a difference.

That's all it takes to help the Oregon Red Cross as we educate Oregonians about the importance of preparedness and encourage their support of local disaster relief.

www.buyablanket.org

Every Saturday from Sept.11 through Oct. 2, we'll be stationing greeters in Fred Meyer stores around the state and asking customers to buy a "virtual blanket," a gift of comfort and hope for their neighbors after a devastating house fire.

We'll also give them a disaster checklist filled with inexpensive items that will help them be prepared for anything.

Whether you're in Milwaukie or Medford, Portland or Pendleton, it's easy to volunteer – just sign up for a two-hour shift at the Fred Meyer store closest to home.

Help us help others. Sign up as a volunteer greeter today.

www.buyablanket.org  

In Other News...  

Compression-Only CPR Okay in Certain Situations

Compression-Only CPR hit the headlines last week, when the New England Journal of Medicine confirmed that the use of chest compressions only, without the addition of rescue breathing, should be supported in certain situations.

This is in line with American Red Cross guidelines, though we still encourage Oregonians to be trained in full CPR and how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED).

VIDEO: How to perform Compression-Only CPR
  

Wilderness First Aid Perfect for Hikers, Outdoors Enthusiasts

Oregon is known for its natural beauty - soaring mountains, rushing rivers and sandy coastlines. But that beauty can turn deadly if you ever find yourself stranded in the wild.

To ensure Oregonians are never caught unprepared, the Oregon Red Cross offers a Wilderness and Remote First Aid course, taught over the course of two Saturdays. This 16-hour course is for those who work, live or play in remote areas – away from the usual EMS service.

Learn more about Wilderness First Aid