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

SUN VALLEY, Nev. (April 7, 2022) — American Red Cross of Northern Nevada staff and Disaster Action Team volunteers joined with Truckee Meadows Fire Department in responding to a home fire yesterday in Sun Valley. The Red Cross was able to assist a family of six with their immediate needs, including helping provide access to safe lodging last night.

The fire destroyed the family’s home, but no one was injured, according to the fire department. “Red Cross staff and volunteers will continue working with the family over the coming weeks to connect them with additional community resources,” said Mary Powell, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Nevada Chapter.

“Our Red Cross volunteers and staff are trained to help support their neighbors in times of crisis,” she said. “We also provide preparedness training, so families can be ready if a fire breaks out in their home.”

Residents interested in fire prevention assistance can visit SoundTheAlarm.org/Nevada or call 775-954-1185 to schedule an appointment for a free smoke alarm installation. During the 20-minute home visit, Red Cross volunteers and community partners will also share information on home fires causes, how to prevent them, what to do if a fire starts, and how to create an escape plan.

“Most people don’t realize they only have two minutes to escape a home fire — and that smoke alarms need to be replaced every 10 years,” Powell said. “Taking action with this knowledge can be the difference between survival and tragedy.”

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.

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