Mimi Teller/American Red Cross

Long before the first smoke alarm was installed, the American Red Cross Pacific Islands Region Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) Chapter Home Fire Campaign was already taking shape through careful planning, teamwork and a deep commitment to community safety.

Weeks before the installation effort, Red Cross volunteer May Angui began preparing supplies for shipment to Rota. From checking inventory to organizing materials, May helped ensure everything was ready for the lifesaving work ahead. Her behind-the-scenes efforts laid the groundwork for a successful campaign focused on reducing home fire risks and helping families better protect what matters most.

Preparation turned into action when Red Cross NMI volunteers, board leadership and government partners traveled to Rota to install free smoke alarms in homes across the island. Working alongside personnel from the NMI Department of Emergency Medical Services, the teams were united by one shared goal: helping families stay safer from home fires.

To make the mission possible, the American Red Cross chartered a plane to transport personnel and supplies to Rota, bringing teams together and reflecting a strong, communitywide commitment to fire safety and preparedness.

Throughout the campaign, teams went door to door installing smoke alarms, sharing fire safety information and helping households take simple steps that can make a critical difference during a home fire. By the end of the effort, 21 homes were made safer, 57 people were served and 48 smoke alarms were installed, tangible results that can help save lives

After the installations wrapped up, the work continued. May once again stepped into a key role, reconciling documents and supplies from the campaign. Her attention to detail ensured accurate records and accountability, helping the NMI Red Cross capture the full impact of the campaign and prepare for future efforts.

From preparation to implementation to follow-up, the Rota Home Fire Campaign showcased the power of volunteers and partners working together. Through dedication, coordination and a shared commitment to community well-being, the NMI Red Cross and its partners helped Rota families take an important step toward greater safety, one smoke alarm at a time.

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.