Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (July 9, 2024) — In the first eight days of July, American Red Cross of Southern Nevada has been called out to 29 home fires helping more than 130 people with their immediate needs, including making sure they had a safe place to stay. Staff and volunteers responded to home fires in areas across Southern Nevada, including Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, Henderson and Pahrump.
Amidst record high temperatures and dry conditions, the heightened risk of fires, compounded by lingering fireworks from the Fourth of July celebrations, poses ongoing challenges, potentially leading to more home fires in the days ahead. Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter, emphasized the crucial role of Red Cross volunteers in the community, stating, “This past week underscores the invaluable support our volunteers offer to those in need. Their immediate compassion and care are lifelines for displaced residents during their most vulnerable moments.”
Home fires are one of the nation’s most frequent disasters, often leaving families in urgent need of support. Flanigan highlighted the pivotal role of the specialized Disaster Action Team volunteers, trained to provide emotional comfort, access to financial aid and essential guidance in times of crisis to aid families in their recovery journey. She noted, “The presence of the Red Cross and its volunteers is instrumental in ensuring that displaced locals receive the critical support they require.”
Empowering communities with fire safety
Residents interested in fire prevention assistance can schedule an appointment for free smoke alarm installation at SoundTheAlarm.org/Nevada. During the home visit, Red Cross volunteers and community partners share information on home fire safety, fire prevention strategies, actions to take during a fire and guidance creating evacuation plans for all occupants, including pets.
Last year, our volunteers responded to more than 300 Southern Nevada home fires, aiding over 1,200 people. “Most people don't realize that they only have about two minutes to escape a home fire and that smoke alarms need replacing every 10 years,” Flanigan 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 Clark County to ensure that there is always someone ready to answer the call when a disaster strikes. After initial training, Red Cross disaster volunteers are prepared to respond to local emergencies, like 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.
Home fire campaign saves lives
Since 2014, the Red Cross has worked with community partners to save over 2,100 lives nationwide by educating families about fire safety, helping them create escape plans and installing free smoke alarms. To learn more about the campaign and how to get involved, visit redcross.org/homefires.
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.