More than 21,000 people received training in first aid, CPR and HIV/AIDS prevention or became a lifeguard through Kosciusko County American Red Cross training programs last year, according to executive director Larry Peppel.

"We help residents prepare for potential emergencies that occur in their homes, streets, workplaces and communities," he said.

Volunteer instructors not only teach scheduled courses, they will take the training classes to schools and businesses.

This year the ARC has presented a "Together We Prepare" brochure detailing five actions for emergency preparedness. The nationwide program suggests families have a disaster response plan in the case of fire, tornado or earthquake and that they build a kit with enough supplies for everyone in the household for at least three days.

Part of preparedness is knowing how to respond in an emergency, and training is part of the "Together We Prepare" theme. ARC classes are available to anyone.

Volunteering for the local ARC is the fourth component of "Together We Prepare" and giving blood is the fifth action people can take.

Last year the local chapter responded to 32 disasters, assisting 92 individuals. More than $43,000 of assistance was given to provide shelter, food, clothing, transportation, prescription medication and other needs.

"North-central Indiana has entered the tornado season, which occurs March through October," Peppel said. "Our history dictates that people develop a plan in case of a tornado."

Preparedness is important, he said, because our world is mobile.

"People are on the move and we need skills in reducing potential accidents at home, at work and on the highways."

Local volunteers will be visiting manufactured home sites in March (National Red Cross month) and April to share preparedness information with residents in case of a fire or tornado.

This year the organization plans to increase the number of blood drives across the county. Last year there were 30 drives, one each month at Center Lake Pavilion in Warsaw and others scheduled in area towns.

Five percent of the county population gives blood.

A special drive will be held at the Warsaw Community High School May 29 in conjunction with the World War II memorial dedication ceremony.

"Our disaster emergency assistance and support is provided free because we are a United Way Agency and our programs are funded, in part, by the United Way," Peppel said. "We rely on public donations to make up the remainder of our funding requirements in addition to the fees we receive for training our lifesaving skills courses."

The KCARC has been awarded a K21 Foundation grant to purchase additional cots and blankets and other disaster response items, as well as training equipment for classes.

"Our chapter is actively involved with the county's local emergency planning committee which builds contingency plans in the event of any disaster.

"We continue to provide support to local members of the military and their families by providing emergency messaging services to active duty personnel as well as financial counseling and assistance, when required, through our armed forces emergency services program."

The local chapter has 20 very active volunteers and about 200 more who respond in emergencies. The chapter can always use more helping hands.

"We have a job for everyone," Peppel said.

For more information or brochures about ARC programs call 267-5244. The local office is at 320 N. Buffalo St. in Warsaw.

On the Net: www.kosciuskocountyamericanredcross.com

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