Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (Dec. 28, 2023) — Early this morning, volunteers from the American Red Cross of Southern Nevada responded to an apartment fire helping 21 residents by addressing their immediate needs, including ensuring they have a safe place to stay. Since Christmas Eve, Red Cross staff and volunteers have assisted at home fires in Las Vegas and North Las Vegas on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and three separate fires yesterday, helping a total for 59 displaced people this week.
Clark County firefighters were called to an apartment fire at 9165 W. Desert Inn Rd. today about 12:30 a.m. At least five apartments were affected displacing five families with a total of 21 people. “This week illustrates how crucial our trained Red Cross disaster volunteers are to this 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, the nation’s most frequent disaster, can leave a family devastated and in urgent need of help. “Our volunteers offer emotional support, access to financial aid and valuable information during crises to aid families in their recovery process,” Flanigan added. “Without the Red Cross and its volunteers, the 59 displaced local residents might not have received the support they needed.”
Free smoke alarm program continues
In response to the ongoing threat of home fires, the Red Cross of Southern Nevada continues working with community partners to provide free smoke alarms and fire safety education. “We're equipping families with the knowledge they need to evacuate safely in case of a home fire,” Flanigan said.
This year, Red Cross of Southern Nevada volunteers and staff responded to more than 300 home fires and assisted over 1,000 Southern Nevadans, providing support and access to community resources.
Residents interested in fire prevention assistance can schedule an appointment for a free smoke alarm installation at SoundTheAlarm.org/Nevada. During the home visit, Red Cross volunteers and community partners share information on home fires, how to prevent them, what to do if a fire starts and creating an escape plan for every person and pet in the home.
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 support home fire preparedness efforts. 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 2,000 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. Home fires claim seven lives every day in the U.S., most often in homes without working smoke alarms.
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 visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.