Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
RENO, Nev. (Feb. 26, 2026) — Home fires remain one of the most common and devastating disasters affecting families in Northern and Rural Nevada. In 2025, the American Red Cross of Northern Nevada responded to 85 home fires, providing critical support to 271 people in need of emergency assistance.
On average, Red Cross volunteers in Northern and Rural Nevada helped more than five people each week last year, offering immediate relief such as temporary shelter, meals, financial assistance and emotional support to those displaced by fires.
Over the past six years, the Red Cross has responded to 582 home fires across Northern Nevada, assisting 2,223 residents. That is an average of 97 home fire responses and about 370 people helped each year.
“Home fires happen far too often, and families can lose so much in just a few moments,” said Bridget Posson, Executive Director for the American Red Cross Northern Nevada Chapter. “Because of our volunteers and donors, the Red Cross can respond quickly with immediate assistance and continue helping families as they begin to recover.”
Home Fire Responses in Northern and Rural Nevada
Red Cross Disaster Action Team (DAT) volunteers responded to home fires across Northern and Rural Nevada, helping residents each year:
Volunteers Make the Response Possible
Home fires are the most frequent disaster in the United States, often leaving families in urgent need of aid. Red Cross DAT volunteers are specially trained to meet the emotional and practical needs of those affected by disasters.
The Red Cross is seeking additional volunteers in Northern Nevada to meet the growing need for disaster response. After training, volunteers are prepared to assist with local emergencies, offering support both onsite and remotely. Experienced volunteers can also deploy to major disasters nationwide. Learn more at redcross.org/DAT.
Free Smoke Alarms and Home Fire Safety
In addition to disaster response, the Red Cross is committed to fire prevention. Through the Sound the Alarm campaign, residents can schedule free smoke alarm installations and receive fire safety education. Volunteers also help families create evacuation plans to ensure everyone, including pets, is prepared in case of an emergency. To schedule a free smoke alarm installation or learn more about fire safety, visit SoundTheAlarm.org/Nevada.
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.
