THE Philippine Red Cross (PRC) will mobilize its 103 chapter staff and volunteers nationwide to ensure public safety and attend to the public’s medical needs in line with this year’s Oplan Kaluluwa 2017.
“Staff and volunteers of the PRC will be working this holiday season starting October 31 to assist those who are going home to their provinces for Undas, and those who will visit the graves of their departed loved ones in cemeteries,” PRC Chairman Sen. Richard J. Gordon said.
As of October 30, more than 1,300 first aiders, including foot patrollers (almost 300 in National Capital Region), will be mobilized in 170 cemeteries nationwide, mounting more than 150 first-aid stations (40 in NCR) to attend to the sick and the injured.
PRC volunteers and staff will also be mobilized in different operations through its 80 ambulance service (13 in NCR), welfare desks in major roads and highways, bus stations, major seaports, airports and gasoline stations nationwide.
“For any untoward incident, you may report to our hotline 143. Red Cross 143 is the flagship program of the PRC where there is one leader and a minimum number of 43 members in every barangay who will serve as the eyes, ears, hands and feet in times of disasters and emergenfies,” Gordon said.
Thousands of motorists who will be traveling during the holiday season should remember the following PRC road-safety tips to prevent road accidents:
1. Be licensed and trained for the vehicle you drive.
2. Use a seatbelt.
3. Wear a helmet on a motorcycle.
4. Drive at a safe speed and distance suitable for the conditions.
5. Do not drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
6. Do not use a mobile phone while driving.
7. Know and respect the highway code.
8. Maintain vehicle in good condition.
9. Be visible as a pedestrian or a cyclist.
10. Know how to react in case of a crash.
11. Remember BLOW Bagets (breaks, lights, oil, water batteries air, gas, engine, tires and self).
The PRC further advised the public to wear light-colored clothing, bring water, avoid consuming alcoholic drinks and avoid bringing unnecessary sharp objects. Parents with small children are, likewise, advised not to bring their children in crowded places as they might got lost.
However, parents must also provide identification cards to their children.
In case of emergency assistance regarding PRC’s Oplan Undas 2017 activities, you may contact Philippine Red Cross Hotline: 143, or Operations Center: 790-23-00 loc. 199-204 or 0917-806-8513. You may also check out updates at the PRC web site at www.redcross.org.ph and social-media accounts: @philredcross for Twitter and Facebook.For more safety tips, you may download the PRC First Aid App through Google Playstore and Apple IOS.