Media contact: Cass Bonfiglio
Red Cross of Northern Nevada
cass.bonfiglio@redcross.org | 704-577-1808
RENO, Nev. (Oct. 6, 2024) — During National Fire Prevention Week, the American Red Cross of Northern Nevada urges residents to prioritize personal preparedness for home and wildfire safety. This week serves as an ideal time to ensure your home is equipped with functioning smoke alarms and to take proactive steps in assembling an essential emergency evacuation to-go bag.
So far this year, the Red Cross of Northern Nevada has responded to over 75 home fires, assisting nearly 275 people. Last year, our teams supported nearly 250 residents affected by almost 100 home fires and installed more than 550 free smoke alarms. “One of the simplest ways to protect your home and family is to have working smoke alarms,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region
Smoke Alarms Save Lives
According to the latest “Smoke Alarms in the U.S.” report from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), working smoke alarms reduce the risk of dying in a home fire by about 60 percent, while the majority of home fire deaths continues to occur in homes with no smoke alarms or no working alarms. “Smoke alarms are the first line of defense in a home fire. Make sure the smoke alarms in your home are working,” Ruster said.
In response to the ongoing threat of home fires, the Red Cross of Northern Nevada continues working with community partners to provide free smoke alarms and fire safety education. Residents interested in fire prevention assistance can schedule an appointment for free smoke alarm installation at SoundTheAlarm.org/Nevada or call 775-954-1185. Please provide your name, address, zip code and phone number. During the visit, Red Cross volunteers will share information on home fires, fire prevention strategies, actions to take during a fire and help create evacuation plans for all occupants, including pets.
Emergency Go-Bags Are Essential for Quick Evacuations
Being prepared with an emergency evacuation to-go bag is essential for quick departures. Whether facing a brief or extended evacuation, having a pre-packed bag can alleviate stress and ensure readiness. The list below provides guidance on items to prepare in advance to evacuate quickly.
When preparing an emergency kit, it’s crucial to consider the unique needs of all family members. This means including essential medical supplies such as hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contacts, syringes and a cane. If there’s a baby in the family, be sure to pack bottles, formula, baby food and diapers. For children, games and activities can provide comfort and distraction during stressful times. Don’t forget pet supplies: include a collar, leash, ID, food, a carrier, a bowl and proof of vaccinations.
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.
