Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (Feb. 18, 2026) — Last year, the American Red Cross of Utah responded to 154 home fires and helped 728 people with immediate disaster assistance. That’s an average of about three home fires a week, leaving families in need of temporary shelter and recovery support.
Over the past six years, home fires in Utah have created a greater need for community support and fire preparedness. Since 2020, Red Cross teams in Utah have responded to 1,008 home fires and supported 4,649 people. That’s an average of 168 home fire responses and 774 people helped each year.
“Home fires are the most frequent disaster we respond to, and they leave families displaced and in urgent need of help,” said Michael Smauldon, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Utah Chapter. “Thanks to the dedication of our volunteers and the generosity of our donors, we’re able to provide immediate relief and ongoing recovery assistance to families in crisis.”
Red Cross Home Fire Responses by Year
Red Cross Disaster Action Team (DAT) volunteers responded to home fires across Utah, providing emergency assistance each year:
After a home fire, the Red Cross provides families with emergency lodging, meals, clothing and financial assistance. Trained volunteers also provide emotional support, assist with replacing essential medications and connect residents with community resources for temporary housing and other recovery needs.
Supporting Your Community
Home fires are the most frequent disaster in the United States, often leaving families in urgent need of aid. Red Cross DAT volunteers are specially trained to meet the emotional and practical needs of those affected by disasters.
The Red Cross is seeking additional volunteers in Utah to meet the growing need for disaster response. After training, volunteers are prepared to assist with local emergencies, offering support both onsite and remotely. Experienced volunteers can also deploy to major disasters nationwide. Learn more at redcross.org/DAT.
Empowering Communities with Fire Prevention
To help prevent home fire tragedies, residents can schedule free smoke alarm installations through the Sound the Alarm campaign. During home visits, Red Cross volunteers and community partners provide fire safety education, help with creating evacuation plans for all members of the household, including pets, and share prevention tips. To schedule a free smoke alarm installation or learn more about fire safety, visit SoundTheAlarm.org/Utah.
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.
