Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680

LAS VEGAS (Aug. 12, 2025) — The American Red Cross of Southern Nevada assisted 140 people affected by 32 home fires in July alone, underscoring the heightened risk of home fires during Las Vegas’s long, hot summers. With air conditioners working overtime in the extreme heat, it’s critical to ensure units are properly maintained to reduce the risk of fire.

“Las Vegas summers bring extreme heat and dry conditions that can turn a small spark into a fast-moving fire,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter. “We encourage everyone to take simple precautions — from checking electrical cords to avoiding overloaded outlets — to help keep their families safe.”

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), air conditioners are a significant source of residential fires, averaging about 2,800 incidents each year nationwide. These fires cause an estimated 20 deaths, 140 injuries and $100 million in property damage annually. NFPA data shows that many of these fires happen during the peak summer months — June, July and August — when air conditioners are in heaviest use.

Preventing AC-Related Fire Hazards This Summer
As temperatures soar during the summer months, air conditioners are essential for staying cool, but with increased use comes increased fire risk. To help keep your home and family safe, the Red Cross of Southern Nevada recommends these key safety steps:

Maintain Your AC Unit:

• Clean or replace filters regularly: Dirty filters restrict airflow, causing overheating. Clean or replace filters every 1-3 months.
• Schedule professional maintenance: Have a qualified technician inspect and service your AC system annually to identify and fix potential fire hazards early.

Clear the Area Around the Unit:

• Outdoor units: Maintain a 2 – 4 foot buffer zone around outdoor units and remove flammable materials such as leaves, mulch, weeds and debris.
• Indoor units: Keep combustible items such as curtains, paper and cleaning supplies away from window units and vents.

Practice Safe Electrical Habits:

• Plug directly into the wall: Always plug window AC units directly into a wall outlet — never into power strips or extension cords.
• Avoid overloading outlets: Don’t plug multiple high-energy appliances into the same outlet.
• Watch for warning signs: If you notice unusual sounds, smells or sparks, turn off the AC unit immediately and call a professional.

Local Home Fire Responses
So far this year, Red Cross of Southern Nevada volunteers have responded to nearly 175 home fires, helping more than 750 people. Last year, Red Cross volunteers responded to nearly 350 home fires, assisting more than 1,350 residents.

Red Cross Disaster Action Team (DAT) volunteers play a critical role in providing immediate relief, including temporary shelter, emotional support and recovery planning resources to help families rebuild after a disaster.

Supporting Your Community
Home fires are the most common disaster in the United States, often leaving families in urgent need of aid. Flanigan emphasized the importance of volunteer support, “The presence of the Red Cross and its volunteers ensures displaced residents receive the critical support they need to rebuild their lives,” she said.

The Red Cross is seeking additional volunteers in Southern Nevada to meet the growing demand for disaster response. After training, volunteers are prepared to assist during local emergencies and, with additional training and experience, deploy to major disasters nationwide. Learn more at redcross.org/DAT.

Empowering Communities with Fire Prevention
Residents can also help prevent home fire tragedies through the Sound the Alarm campaign, which offers free smoke alarm installations and fire safety education. During visits, Red Cross volunteers and community partners provide home fire prevention information and evacuation planning guidance for all members of the household including pets. Learn more or schedule a visit at SoundTheAlarm.org/Nevada.

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.