CHARLESTON, S.C. February 7, 2022 – Disaster-trained volunteers with the American Red Cross are responding to an apartment fire that occurred early this morning at The Palms Apartments, 311 Royal Pal Blvd, in Charleston. Approximately 24 units at the apartment complex were destroyed by the fire. The number of people impacted may change, but the Red Cross is expected to assist an estimated 110 people after the fire.
The Red Cross of South Carolina Disaster Action Team members are responding to provide the affected people with financial assistance for immediate needs like shelter, food, and clothes to the families impacted.
“As our teams work with the families impacted, we are certainly thinking about them and want to provide all the support we can,” said Brint Patrick, the Executive Director of the Lowcountry Chapter. “This devasting event reminders us that fires can happen anywhere at any time, and we must always be prepared for such disasters. When temperatures are low, we encourage families to practice their home fire safety plan and test their smoke alarms.”
In addition to immediate needs, Red Cross team members are providing virtual mental and spiritual care assistance to anyone that may need it. The Red Cross will continue to stay in contact with its partners to see if any additional assistance is needed.
KEEP YOUR FAMILY SAFE DURING COLDER MONTHS The Red Cross of South Carolina responds to 32% more home fires a month in winter than in warmer seasons. When heating your home, please remember that space heaters need just that: space. Be sure they are three feet away from anything that can burn: furniture, bedding carpets, rugs, and curtains. Make sure the space heater is off and unplugged before leaving a room or falling asleep. It is important to plug the space heater directly into an outlet and not an extension cord. Before you plug it in, inspect the power cord before each use. If the cord is worn, broken or loose have the appliance professionally repaired or replace it.
HOW TO HELP: The American Red Cross of South Carolina responds to six home fires every day on average, and in many cases, the families impacted lose everything. Help families get back on their feet by giving the gift of a second chance. Gifts from local “Hometown Heroes” provide financial assistance so families can pay for their immediate needs such as food, clothes, personal care items, and a safe place to stay. Become a Hometown Hero by clicking here or visiting www.redcross.org/HometownHero.
About the American Red Cross: The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation’s blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization – not a government agency – and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org/SC or @RedCrossSC
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