Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (Oct. 6, 2024) — The American Red Cross of Utah is partnering with local fire departments during the 102nd Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 6-12, focusing on the lifesaving importance of working smoke alarms in homes and encouraging all residents to test their smoke alarms.
So far this year, the Red Cross of Utah staff and volunteers have responded to nearly 150 home fires, assisting over 500 people. Last year, our team supported almost 800 residents affected by nearly 200 home fires and installed more than 550 free smoke alarms. “One of the simplest ways to protect your home and family is to have working smoke alarms,” said Michael Smauldon, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Utah & Southwest Wyoming Chapter.
Smoke Alarms Save Lives
According to the latest “Smoke Alarms in the U.S.” report from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), working smoke alarms reduce the risk of dying in a home fire by about 60 percent. Unfortunately, the majority of home fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or no working alarms. “Smoke alarms are the first line of defense in a home fire. Make sure the smoke alarms in your home are working,” Smauldon said.
In response to the ongoing threat of home fires, the Red Cross of Utah continues working with community partners to provide free smoke alarms and fire safety education. Residents interested in fire prevention assistance can schedule an appointment for free smoke alarm installation at SoundTheAlarm.org/Utah.
During home visits, Red Cross volunteers and community partners share crucial information on home fire safety, fire prevention strategies, actions to take during a fire, and guidance on creating evacuation plans for all occupants, including pets. “Most people don’t realize they only have about two minutes to escape a home fire and that smoke alarms need to be replaced every 10 years,” Smauldon said. “Arming yourself with this knowledge can mean the difference between survival and tragedy.”
Supporting your community
Additional Disaster Action Team volunteers are needed in Utah to ensure someone is always ready to respond when a disaster strikes. After initial training, Red Cross disaster volunteers are prepared to respond to local emergencies, such as home fires, offering immediate support on-site or remotely. With experience and additional training, volunteers can deploy to major emergencies or disasters locally and nationwide. Explore volunteer opportunities at redcross.org/DAT.
About Fire Prevention Week
Started in 1922 by the National Fire Protection Association, Fire Prevention Week educates the public about fire prevention and safety. It is observed each year during the week of Oct. 9 to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire, which began on Oct. 8, 1871, and caused devastating loss of life and property. Since 1925, it has been nationally recognized under a Presidential proclamation, making Fire Prevention Week the longest-running public-awareness campaign in the United States.
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.