By Ashwini Tallur
American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Communications Volunteer

The Davis Fire ignited on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024, in Davis Creek Regional Park, approximately 20 miles south of Reno. It scorched nearly 6,000 acres, destroyed around a dozen homes and buildings, and led to evacuations. In response, the American Red Cross of Northern Nevada quickly mobilized, alongside local firefighters, to establish an evacuation shelter for displaced residents. Numerous Red Cross volunteers and employees worked together to ensure evacuees had a safe shelter and access to essentials like food and water.

Red Cross of Northern Nevada’s Operations Team played a pivotal role in managing the shelter and addressing the logistical challenges that arose. Volunteers and employees on this team handled phone lines, processed donations, created comfort kits and tackled a range of other tasks.

Ashwini Tallur, a recent addition to the Northern Nevada Chapter of the Red Cross, experienced her first disaster response during the Davis Fire as a member of the Operations Team. She shared her insights on the experience:

Navigating the Complexities of Disaster Response
“This was my first close encounter with a wildfire. I witnessed firsthand the immense efforts required to manage the aftermath – handling evacuations; arranging shelters for people, pets, and animals; receiving calls both for help and offers of assistance; providing shelter, food, and emergency supplies; conducting recovery casework; reunifying families; and offering health and mental health services, among other responsibilities.”

Operations Chapter Leadership
“During the fire, I served as the Operations Chapter Lead, supporting our Executive Director, and the Disaster Action Team. Alongside my colleague and supervisor, Sherryl Morgan, Business Operations Coordinator for the Utah-Nevada Region, I prepared materials for community meetings and media briefings, processed donations, and ensured our reception team had the latest information to share with community members.”

“At one point, I helped distribute truckloads of snacks and drinks to our shelter and front-line fire responders. The emotional impact of seeing an Instagram post featuring those snacks and beverages in the hands of firefighters was indescribable. There are few rewards as fulfilling as witnessing your efforts reaching those in need.”

Community Love in Action
“Our reception team fielded hundreds of calls from concerned community members eager to assist and contribute. We closely monitored the fire to respond accurately to inquiries about evacuation lines and the recovery process.”

“Each time I saw the massive smoke plumes visible from nearly everywhere in Reno and Sparks, my heart would sink. Yet, I also witnessed the community uniting in a remarkable, inspiring manner. I met and conversed with many enthusiastic and passionate individuals eager to help alleviate the devastation caused by the Davis Fire. It was truly awe-inspiring to see people rallying to aid in countless ways.”

Join the Red Cross Community and Become a Volunteer
“If you're reading this and considering volunteering for the Red Cross, take this as your sign. You don't need to be a medical professional, experienced disaster responder, or wildfire expert. I'm a lawyer with a passion for humanitarianism, and I've found my place and purpose within the Red Cross. The Davis Fire has only reinforced my commitment to helping my community.”

As the number of large and complex disasters continues to rise, so does the need for compassionate volunteers. Our volunteers are the heart of our mission, comprising 90% of our workforce. By becoming a Red Cross volunteer, you can make a significant impact on those in need. To join our team, visit redcross.org/volunteertoday.

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.