By Jennifer Costa, Red Cross Communications Director

It was one of the most urgent calls a Red Cross disaster action team can receive: on May 15, a massive fire and explosion at a lumber mill in Searsmont, Maine, left firefighters injured and the Red Cross mobilizing without hesitation.

“As we began gathering information and preparing to respond, the incident was later escalated and declared a mass casualty event,” said John Montes, Red Cross regional disaster officer for Northern New England.

Working in close coordination with county emergency management, the team quickly assessed needs, mobilized volunteers, and deployed critical resources. At the height of the response, with more than 200 first responders on scene, Red Cross teams delivered food, hydration, comfort items—and a steady, reassuring presence—around the clock.

Tony and Susan Mellon are two of more than 35 Red Crossers who responded to the scene. The couple has deployed to countless disasters across the country, but this one hit close to the heart.

“Tony and I were compelled to act as soon as we heard about the tragedy,” Susan said. “It is a sad situation for all, but we hope we made a small difference for the devoted first responders on the scene. We are forever grateful to them for all they do every day to keep our communities safe.”

Once on the scene, the Mellons joined fellow Red Cross volunteers to organize food and beverage donations, share real-time needs with the community, connect with organizations eager to help, and coordinate services to maximize impact and prevent duplication.

“What stayed with me most was the immediate and heartfelt outpouring of support from the community,” said Red Cross volunteer Mary Owens. “Local organizations were already on scene, and together we coordinated food and hydration for firefighters and other first responders. Moments like this remind me that Red Cross volunteers—and Mainers as a whole—show up without hesitation when help is needed. I was grateful to contribute, even in a small way, to the response.”

Tragically, one firefighter lost his life and several others remain under medical care for their injuries. In response, the Red Cross supplied additional units of blood to support area hospitals treating patients from the fire—an important reminder that there is no substitute for blood, which can only come from volunteer donors.

“Volunteer blood donors are needed each and every day to help save lives. This incident illustrates that it is the blood already on hospital shelves that helps during an emergency,” said Stephanie Couturier, Red Cross regional CEO. “The Red Cross is thankful for all donors who give generously every day to help patients in Maine and across the country.”

“While we do not yet know what the coming days will bring, we do know this team stands ready to help,” said Montes. “Our presence has demonstrated a promise to the community, one that will not disappear after the headlines fade, but that the Red Cross will continue to stand beside them in the difficult days ahead.”