Media Contacts:
Tracy Austin
432-530-6886 | Tracy.austin@redcross.org

Delia Krippelz
512-202-8542 | Delia.krippelz@redcross.org

Odessa, December 19, 2024 — On Saturday, January 18, 2025, Red Cross volunteers and community partners will join forces to install free smoke alarms for families in Odessa as part of the Sound the Alarm event. This initiative is a key component of the national Red Cross Home Fire Campaign, which has helped save at least 2,212 lives since its launch in October 2014.

“Through the Sound the Alarm campaign, we directly assist local families by installing smoke alarms, which can cut the risk of dying in a home fire by half,” said Tracy Austin, Executive Director of the Permian Basin Chapter. “Our mission is to help people prepare for, respond to, and recover from home fires, which remain the most frequent disaster the Red Cross responds to every eight minutes across the U.S.”

During home visits, Red Cross volunteers will not only install smoke alarms but also provide vital fire safety education, including how to prevent fires, what to do if a fire starts, and how to create an effective escape plan.

How to Get Involved

• Request a Free Smoke Alarm: If you would like to schedule a free smoke alarm installation, call 210-582-1962 or visit this link. All services are free, thanks to the generosity of donors.
• Volunteer for the Event: No prior experience is needed to volunteer. Training will be provided before volunteer teams begin installations. Sign up to volunteer by visiting this link.
   

Event Details

WHAT: Sound the Alarm kickoff, including remarks from Tracy Austin, Executive Director, followed by volunteer training and smoke alarm installations.

WHERE: Kellus Turner Community Center, 2261 Sycamore Drive, Odessa, TX, 79763

WHEN: Saturday, January 18, 2025, from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

WHO: American Red Cross Permian Basin Chapter, volunteers and community partners

VISUALS: Opportunities for photos and b-roll of kickoff remarks, volunteer training and volunteers installing smoke alarms
 

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 social media.