Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (April 5, 2025) — The American Red Cross of Southern Nevada has provided assistance to over 350 people impacted by 75 home fires during the first three months of 2025. These figures mark a record high for both home fire responses and the number of people helped in the year’s first quarter over the past decade.
“The unprecedented number of home fire responses highlights the essential role our volunteers play in offering support to those in need,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter. “Our dedicated volunteers provide immediate care, compassion, and hope to displaced residents, serving as a lifeline during times of crisis.”
Increasing Home Fire Responses
This year’s home fire relief efforts show a notable increase compared to recent years for the same time period. From Jan. 1 to March 31, 2025, the Red Cross of Southern Nevada responded to 75 home fires, assisting 357 residents. This compares to 57 responses assisting 269 people in 2024, 56 responses helping 219 people in 2023, and 59 responses supporting 193 people in 2022, during the same period.
Last year, the Red Cross of Southern Nevada responded to nearly 350 home fires, helping more than 1,350 residents throughout the year. Red Cross Disaster Action Team (DAT) volunteers play a critical role in offering immediate assistance to those affected by home fires. Services provided include temporary shelter, emotional support, and recovery planning resources to help families rebuild after a disaster.
Supporting Your Community
Home fires are the most frequent disasters in the United States, often leaving families in urgent need of aid. Flanigan emphasized the pivotal work of DAT volunteers, who are specially trained to meet the emotional and practical needs of those impacted. “The presence of the Red Cross and its volunteers ensures displaced residents receive the critical support they need to help rebuild their lives,” Flanigan said.
The Red Cross is seeking additional volunteers in Clark County to meet the growing need for disaster response. After initial training, volunteers are ready to assist with local emergencies, providing comfort and resources on-site or remotely. Experienced volunteers can also deploy to major disasters nationwide. To explore Disaster Action Team volunteer opportunities, visit redcross.org/DAT.
“Even in life’s toughest moments, knowing someone is there to help can reignite hope for our neighbors,” said Flanigan. “Join us in ensuring no one in Southern Nevada faces emergencies alone.”
Empowering Communities with Fire Prevention
To help prevent home fire tragedies, residents can schedule free smoke alarm installations through the Sound the Alarm campaign. During home visits, Red Cross volunteers and community partners provide fire safety education, guidance on creating evacuation plans for all members of the household including pets, and prevention tips. Learn more or schedule an appointment at SoundTheAlarm.org/Nevada.
Red Cross Home Fire Campaign Saves Lives
Since launching in October 2014, the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign has saved at least 2,284 lives through fire safety education, escape planning, and the installation of smoke alarms in at-risk homes. To be part of this life-saving initiative, 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.
