Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (July 19, 2022) — The American Red Cross of Southern Nevada staff and volunteers who quickly responded to the massive June 19 downtown fire will be recognized, along with other first responders, by the Las Vegas Mayor and City Council, Wednesday, July 20, at 9 a.m. at the Las Vegas City Council meeting.
“I am proud of the tireless efforts of Southern Nevada’s first responders who come to the assistance of our residents no matter the situation,” said Las Vegas City Councilwoman Michele Fiore, who organized the effort to recognize those who responded to last month’s fire in downtown Las Vegas. “I am also proud and grateful for Red Cross of Southern Nevada staff and volunteers who at a moment’s notice, dropped everything to assist their neighbors.”
The Red Cross assisted more than 100 residents affected by the 4-alarm fire with essentials, such as a safe place to sleep that night, food, clothing, and personal care/health items, according to Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter. “A home fire can be devastating to a family,” she said. “Our volunteers met with those displaced, providing emotional support, access to financial assistance, and valuable information to help them begin to recover.”
Red Cross volunteers and staff often respond to home fires, which are the nation’s most frequent disaster, Flanigan reported. “We are pleased to accept acknowledgement on behalf of all those who helped our community in a time of crisis,” she said. “And for Councilwoman Fiore’s efforts to recognize volunteers and first responders, we will be presenting her with the Red Cross Certificate of Appreciation at Wednesday’s meeting.”
How to prepare yourself
Residents interested in fire prevention assistance can visit SoundTheAlarm.org/Nevada 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, how to prevent them, what to do if a fire starts, and how to create an escape plan.
How to help others
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.