Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (May 4, 2024) — American Red Cross of Southern Nevada volunteers were called out to 32 home fires in April, assisting 132 people with their immediate needs, including making sure they had a safe place to stay. Staff and volunteers responded to home fires in areas across Southern Nevada, including Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, Henderson, Pahrump and Indian Springs.
“This past month illustrates how important Red Cross volunteers are to our community,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter. “They provide immediate compassion and care when displaced residents need it most.”
Home fires are the nation’s most frequent disaster and can leave a family devastated and in need of urgent assistance. “Our specialized Disaster Action Team volunteers are trained to provide emotional support, access to financial assistance and valuable information during times of crisis to help families begin to recover,” Flanigan said. “Without the Red Cross and its volunteers, these 132 displaced local residents may not have had the support they needed.”
Empowering communities with fire safety
Residents interested in fire prevention assistance can schedule an appointment for free smoke alarm installation at SoundTheAlarm.org/Nevada. During the home visit, Red Cross volunteers and community partners will share information on home fires, fire prevention strategies, actions to take during a fire and guidance creating evacuation plans for all occupants, including pets.
Last year, our volunteers responded to more than 300 Southern Nevada home fires, aiding over 1,200 people. “Most people don't realize that they only have about two minutes to escape a home fire and that smoke alarms need replacing every 10 years,” Flanigan said. “Arming yourself with this knowledge can mean the difference between survival and tragedy.”
Support your neighbors
Volunteers are always needed to help install smoke alarms and share fire safety information with families. No prior experience is needed – training is provided. Those interested can register at SoundTheAlarm.org/Nevada. Financial donations are also accepted to help members of the community prepare for, respond to and recover from home fires. Go to redcross.org/donate to give.
Home fire campaign saves lives
Since 2014, the Red Cross has worked with community partners to save over 2,100 lives nationwide by educating families about fire safety, helping them create escape plans and installing free smoke alarms. To learn more about the campaign and how to get involved, visit redcross.org/homefires.
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.