Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
RENO, Nev. (June 8, 2022) — American Red Cross of Northern Nevada Disaster Action Team staff and volunteers today assisted 13 people displaced by a Reno apartment fire this morning, providing for their immediate needs, including access to safe lodging tonight.
The Reno Fire Department responded to the multi-home blaze that damaged or destroyed five apartment units and displaced the residents, according to fire officials.
“Our Red Cross volunteers and staff are trained to help support their community and neighbors in times of crisis,” said Mary Powell, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Nevada Chapter. “Disaster Action Team volunteers are on duty every day to ensure that no one in Northern Nevada has to face life’s emergencies alone.”
Red Cross volunteers and staff often respond to home fires, which are the nation’s most frequent disaster and can leave a family devastated and in need of immediate assistance. Disaster Action Team members provide emotional support, access to financial assistance, and valuable information to help families begin to recover.
“Our staff and volunteers are also trained to provide preparedness education so families know what to do if a fire breaks out,” Powell said.
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 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.
“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, and 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.