Media Contact: Mike Sagara
520-403-7408 | aznmmedia@redcross.org
TUCSON, NOVEMBER 10, 2025 Home fires claim an average of seven lives every day in the U.S., but having working smoke alarms can cut the risk of death by half. To help keep families safe, the Southern Arizona Chapter of the American Red Cross, in partnership with students from the University of Arizona College of Nursing Master’s Program and the Northern Arizona University College of Nursing Bachelors Program, will install free smoke alarms on Thursday, November 13, 2025, in South Tucson.
“Home fires are our nation’s most frequent disaster, and with the winter months and holidays coming, home fires will increase,” said Courtney Slanaker, Executive Director of the Southern Arizona Chapter of the American Red Cross. “That’s why the Red Cross is preparing families to act quickly through our Home Fire Campaign. Together, we’ll meet with local families to install free smoke alarms, help them create a two-minute fire escape plan, and share safety information on home fires and other local disaster risks.”
Media Opportunities:
OUR CAMPAIGN TO #ENDHOMEFIRES Home fires take seven lives each day in the U.S., most often in homes without working smoke alarms. That’s why the Red Cross is working with partners to install free smoke alarms in high-risk communities and help families create escape plans through its Home Fire Campaign — which has saved at least 2,508 lives across the country since launching in October 2014. Since July 2024, the Southern Arizona Chapter and local partners have installed more than 450 free smoke alarms, making more than 235 households safer from the threat of home fires.
For home fire safety resources and tips, visit redcross.org/fire or download the free Red Cross Emergency App (search “American Red Cross” in app stores or go to redcross.org/apps).
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
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