Y2K and the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross, in an effort to help families and individuals prepare for the Year 2000 technology problem has created an online Y2K checklist, suggesting the disaster-relief organization believes the threat posed by the computer glitch is real.

The computer "bug" was created in the early days of computers when computer programmers and developers -- in an effort to save precious memory space -- allotted two-digit codes instead of four to year dates. This practice continued for some time, even after saving memory space was no longer an issue.

Today, many computer systems, along with embedded chips found in vehicles, elevators, traffic signals and other such equipment, continue to use the old two-digit codes for year dates. Because these computer systems and embedded chips won't be able to distinguish whether the turn of the century will be the year 2000 or 1900, it is impossible to foresee exactly what problems will result from this old programming on New Year's Day 2000. However, many experts believe that the problem will be a persistent one over years rather than one large "crash."

Because it is impossible to foresee exactly what problems will have to be dealt with at the turn of the millennium, the American Red Cross has developed an 11-item check list to help everyone handle Y2K in the best fashion possible. While the list is designed to help all who follow it, the American Red Cross also asks that everyone be an advocate in their communities by supporting local emergency and law enforcement officials.

Because many types of electrical equipment have embedded chips in them that control vital operations, the American Red Cross suggests that you first "check with manufacturers of any essential computer-controlled electronic equipment in your home to see if that equipment may be affected." This includes garage door openers, electronic locks, consumer electronics, security and fire systems, appliances and programmable thermostats. If the equipment will be affected, it should be dealt with according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Although building an extra garage to hoard supplies is not suggested by the American Red Cross, the second thing the organization does suggest is to stock disaster supplies that will last several days to a week for yourself and all who live with you. This will include nonperishable foods and water as well as an adequate supply of nonprescription and prescription drugs that you and your household regularly use.

"At least a gallon per person per day to drink and a gallon per person per day for hygienic purposes should be stored," suggested Christopher Thomas, a spokesperson for the American Red Cross

Because computer systems may fail at banks, the American Red Cross suggests that you keep some extra cash on hand as well.

"Plan to keep cash in a safe place," says the American Red Cross. "Withdraw your money from your bank in small amounts well in advance of 12/31/99 to avoid long lines at the bank at the last minute."

A few days or so before 12/31/99, the American Red Cross also suggests filling your gas tank. However, you should keep in mind that your car may have embedded chips that control vital functions such as power brakes, power steering, electronic fuel injection and other functions.

In case power fails in your area, the American Red Cross says that it would be wise to have alternative cooking methods planned.

"We recommend you don't do it (use camp stoves inside the house) because this is how many fires start," said Thomas.

If power goes out, so may the heat. Having extra blankets, coats, hats, gloves and other articles of warm clothing will be a must since the Y2K problem will happen during the heart of the winter season.

"Please do not plan to use gas-fueled appliances, like an oven, as an alternative heating source," says the American Red Cross. "The same goes for wood-burning devices or liquid-fueled heating devices that are not designed to be used in a residential structure. Camp stoves and heaters should only be used out of doors in a well-ventilated area. If you do purchase an alternative heating device, make sure it is approved for use indoors and is listed with the Underwriters Laboratories (UL)."

If lights go out due to power failures, flashlights -- not candles -- should be used for lighting purposes. Make sure you have a good supply of fresh batteries as well.

Speaking of batteries, keep some available for portable radios and televisions so that you can keep up with information concerning available emergency shelters. The American Red Cross says that local officials may ask you to leave your premises due to prolonged power outages or other reasons; knowing the locations of emergency shelters will prevent confusion.

The American Red Cross also suggests checking the batteries in smoke and fire alarms as well. Of course, if your fire alarm system is centrally wired throughout the house, make sure it has a battery backup.

Any generators used for power should be hooked up directly to the appliance that you are wanting to send power to, and the American Red Cross reminds you that generators should always be kept in well-ventilated areas.

Last but not least, the American Red Cross asks that you check with local emergency service providers to see if more information is available on how your community will be handling the Y2K problem.

No matter how serious Y2K may be, Thomas believes that everyone should be prepared, and he said that the American Red Cross check list falls in line with normal disaster preparedness for the organization.

"We have to be prepared for the possibility (of a disaster)," said Thomas. "And the American Red Cross -- though hoping for the best -- is prepared for the worst."