Miami Dade Fire Rescue responding to an explosion at a residential building in Opa-Locka.
PHOTO CREDIT: Siara Campbell, American Red Cross Public Affairs
OPA-LOCKA, Fla. (October 15, 2021) – The Greater Miami & The Keys Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to the site of a gas stove explosion at a residential building this afternoon on Northwest 135th Terrace in Opa-Locka. Fire officials say an estimated 120 people have been affected by the explosion. The Red Cross is assessing the immediate emergency needs such as food, temporary shelter, clothing, and providing casework, health, and mental health services. The Red Cross has opened a temporary reception center for those impacted while local officials on scene restore services to the residential building.
Red Cross volunteers on the scene are members of the Disaster Action Team, a group of specially trained volunteers who respond to the scene of a local disaster when called upon at any time – day or night. Red Cross disaster assistance is free of charge, a gift made possible by donations to the Red Cross.
To make a financial donation to your local Red Cross to help people affected by disasters in the United States and around the world, go to redcross.org.
WHAT PEOPLE CAN DO People can visit redcross.org/homefires to find out more about how to protect themselves and their homes from fire. They can become a Red Cross volunteer by applying on redcross.org.
RED CROSS APPS People can download the all-inclusive Red Cross Emergency App, which combines more than 35 emergency alerts to help keep the user safe. And there is a special mobile app -Monster Guard - designed for kids, teaching them to prepare for emergencies at home by playing an engaging game. Users can find the apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org/southflorida or visit us on Facebook or Twitter at @SFLRedCross.