Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (Jan. 25, 2025) — During Community Risk Reduction Week, Jan. 20–26, the American Red Cross of Southern Nevada is encouraging residents to take steps to prevent home fires—the most common disaster in the United States. Over the past decade, Red Cross volunteers have installed nearly 14,000 free smoke alarms in Southern Nevada and provided fire prevention education to families through the Home Fire Campaign, strengthening safety and saving lives across the community.
The Red Cross is calling on Southern Nevada residents to take proactive steps this week by testing their smoke alarms and practicing their two-minute escape plans. Free resources and assistance are available at SoundTheAlarm.org/Nevada.
“Community Risk Reduction Week reminds us how critical it is to be prepared,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter. “Every step you take to plan and prepare—whether it’s testing smoke alarms or practicing escape routes—can make all the difference in protecting your loved ones during a home fire.”
A Decade of Saving Lives Through the Home Fire Campaign
Home fires are the most frequent disaster in the U.S., claiming an average of seven lives every day. However, having working smoke alarms can cut the risk of death by half. Over the past 10 years, the Home Fire Campaign has made a significant difference, saving nearly 2,250 lives nationwide and installing more than 2.6 million free smoke alarms in homes across the country.
This year marks the campaign’s 10th anniversary. Over the past decade, the Home Fire Campaign has continuously adapted to address the unique needs of communities, offering critical resources and tools to help families prevent and respond to home fires. The Red Cross remains dedicated to this vital work, helping to make homes safer and protect lives.
Empowering Southern Nevada Communities with Fire Safety Education
The Red Cross of Southern Nevada partners with fire departments and other organizations to reduce home fire risks by offering free smoke alarm installations and fire safety education. Last year, volunteers installed more than 1,200 smoke alarms in Southern Nevada and provided families with essential fire safety knowledge.
“We’re not only installing free smoke alarms, but also equipping families with the tools and information they need to evacuate safely during a fire,” Flanigan said. “Many people don’t realize they only have about two minutes to escape a home fire or that smoke alarms need to be replaced every 10 years.”
Residents can schedule free smoke alarm installations and fire safety consultations at SoundTheAlarm.org/Nevada. During these visits, Red Cross volunteers and community partners share valuable advice on fire prevention, evacuation plans and creating an emergency plan that includes all members of the household, including pets.
Supporting Southern Nevada Families Affected by Home Fires
This year, Red Cross of Southern Nevada staff and volunteers have already responded to 27 home fires, helping 133 people by offering immediate assistance, including emotional support, financial aid and recovery information. Last year, our team supported almost 1,350 residents affected by nearly 350 home fires.
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.
