Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
ST. GEORGE, Utah (April 8, 2022) — American Red Cross of Utah Disaster Action Team staff and volunteers today continued to assist 15 people displaced by a St. George fire Thursday night, providing for their immediate needs, including access to safe lodging last night.
The St. George Fire Department responded to the multi-alarm blaze that damaged or destroyed six homes and displaced families. No one was injured in the fire, according to fire officials.
“The Red Cross will continue working with these families over the coming weeks to connect them with additional community resources,” said Benjamin Donner, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Central & Southern Utah Chapter. “In time of crisis, our dedicated staff and volunteers are ready to help support their community and neighbors at a moment’s notice. No one should ever have to go through a crisis alone.”
Red Cross volunteers and staff often respond to home fires, which are the nation’s most frequent disaster and can leave a family devastated and in need of immediate assistance. Disaster Action Team members provide emotional support, access to financial assistance, and valuable information to help families begin to recover.
“These specialized volunteers provide compassion and care when it is needed most,” Donner said. “Our staff and volunteers are also trained to provide preparedness education so families can know how to evacuate safely if a fire breaks out in their home.”
Residents interested in fire prevention assistance can visit SoundTheAlarm.org/Utah to schedule an appointment for a free smoke alarm installation. During the 20-minute home visit, Red Cross volunteers and community partners will also share information on home fires causes, how to prevent them, what to do if a fire starts, and how to create an escape plan.
“Most people don’t realize they only have two minutes to escape a home fire — and that smoke alarms need to be replaced every 10 years,” Donner said. “Taking action with this knowledge can be the difference between survival and tragedy.”
Volunteers are always needed to help install smoke alarms and share fire safety information with families. No prior experience is needed — training is provided. Those interested can register at SoundTheAlarm.org/Utah. Financial donations are also accepted to help members of the community prepare for, respond to, and recover from home fires.
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 Twitter at @RedCross
