SurvivingY2K the Red Crossway

by Adam Greenberg

Y2K is coming! Y2K is coming! Run for the hills!

a & e assistant editor

Okay, okay, let's not lose our heads. There appears to be two mindsets about the potential forY2K anarchy following midnight Dec. 31, 1999: The first is the Henny-Penny "the sky is falling" perspective, with people loading up on vast supplies and food in anticipation of the worst. The other group of people is taldng a more casual approach, hoping that nothing happens and letting the chips fall where they may.

Just to recap, the Y2K problem stems from the early days of computerized technology when programmers used shortcuts to save space and money. They opted to use a twodigit code for dating, and now that code is embedded in systems throughout the world. The chaos could potentially begin when 99 rolls over to 00, causing the computer to think that it is actually 1900 instead of 2000.

In response to widespread public concern, the American Red Cross is offering advice on how to deal with possible problems due to possible technological malfunctions. They have created a checklist in anticipation ofY2K. Here are some of the basic tips: Check with manufacturers to see if any of your essential household electronics (such as thermostats, security, etc.) might be affected.

• Stock up on necessary supplies, like a week's supply of food and regularlyused medications.

• Have extra cash or travelers checks on hand in case electronic ATM transactions cannot be processed.

• Keep your automobile gas tank above half full.

• In case of power failure, be prepared to use alternative cooking devices.

• Have extra blankets, coats, hats, and gloves to keep warm.

• Have plenty of flashlights and extra batteries to use instead of candles for emergency lighting.

For more information on Y2K preparedness, contact your local Red Cross chapter or visit their website at www.redcross.org.