Red Cross Disaster Volunteers Help Montana Families Following Home Fires

Since March 1, Montana Red Cross volunteers have responded to 11 home fires, helping 27 people with their most immediate needs, such as food, shelter, clothing, and emotional support.

Those responses included Great Falls, Kalispell, Bonner, Missoula, Big Sky, Billings, and Box Elder home fires. So far in 2024, the Red Cross has responded to nearly 50 fires across the state and provided aid to 140 families. During and after these events, disaster response teams work with a network of partners, including fire departments and community groups, to connect people with the resources and support they need.

“This lifesaving work wouldn’t be possible without our network of volunteers, who dedicate their time day in and day out,” said Diane Wright, Montana Red Cross executive director. “Now, we’re asking all Montanans to do their part in preventing fires by reviewing their home fire escape plans.”

HOME FIRE SAFETY TIPS

Test smoke alarms: Ensure smoke alarms are installed on every level of the home, including the basement and in or near sleeping areas. Test alarms monthly and replace batteries as needed. Replace smoke alarms older than ten years.

Practice your escape plan: Discuss fire safety with your household. Familiarize children with the sound of your smoke alarm and teach them what to do when they hear it when you practice your escape plan.

Use space heaters with caution. Place them on a level, hard, and nonflammable surface—at least three feet away from things that could burn. And never leave them unattended.

Avoid matches: Teach your children to tell you or a responsible adult when they find matches or lighters at home or school. Keep matches, lighters, and other ignitable substances in a secured location out of reach of children.

HELP AVAILABLE: Following a home fire, Red Cross of Montana volunteers help meet families’ immediate needs, including food, clothing, and shelter. Red Cross teams also connect families with mental health support and spiritual care and help replace medications and medical equipment. These services are free and available to all. To seek assistance after a disaster like a home fire, please call 800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767).

BECOME A VOLUNTEER: Each year, Red Cross volunteers respond to hundreds of disasters in communities big and small across Montana. To learn more about becoming a Red Cross disaster volunteer and providing help and hope in your community, visit redcross.org/volunteer or call 800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767). Training is provided.

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides emotional support to disaster victims; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or facebook.com/redcrossmontana or call 800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767).