By Carmela Burke
Tradition continues as the American Red Cross Los Angeles Region supports the Pasadena Tournament of Roses and Pasadena Fire Department at the 134th Rose Parade.
On Monday, Jan. 2, 2023, more than 100 volunteers will take their positions at Red Cross First Aid Stations along the 5-1/2-mile parade route and pre/post-parade activities.
The Red Cross began its partnership in 1964 when tournament officials approached Red Cross representatives from the Pasadena chapter to set up three first aid stations for the parade. Today, there are 13 Red Cross first aid stations.
Since late September 2022, volunteers – including 59 Red Cross Youth members – trained for weeks to gain certification in Emergency Medical Response, Basic Life Support and Blood Born Pathogens. Many of them have an interest in the medical field professionally. Devoting hours of experience as a first-aid volunteer was a natural choice. New and veteran volunteers value the training, teamwork, and camaraderie working during the parade, float viewing, and football game.
What happens during a first-aider’s shift?