Red Cross, partner agencies visit homes to Sound the Alarm

Volunteers of the American Red Cross-NMI Chapter, Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services, Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting, and Priority Care personnel canvassed the island of Saipan to install more than 100 smoke alarms in over 50 homes as part of the Red Cross’ nationwide Sound the Alarm Campaign. Along with installing free smoke alarms in homes, volunteers also discussed typhoon preparedness and home fire safety with residents during the home visits.

Over 170 people islandwide have been served by the Red Cross this month. Since 2017, the NMI Chapter of the American Red Cross, together with its partners, have installed over 1,100 smoke alarms and served over 1,700 people across Saipan, Tinian, and Rota.

“We are grateful to our volunteers, government and private partners who supported this year’s Sound the Alarm event to help keep our neighbors safe from home fires,” said J.D. Tenorio, Disaster Program manager of the Red Cross, NMI Chapter. “Home fires are a constant threat in our community, accounting for most of our disaster responses. Today’s efforts will make a lasting difference to help save lives and protect those who are most vulnerable.”

HOW TO SOUND THE ALARM IN YOUR HOME

When a fire breaks out, there can be as little as two minutes to escape safely. To sign up for a home visit from the Red Cross for fire safety and response education and to install a free smoke alarm, visit www.soundthealarm.org.

ABOUT THE AMERICAN RED CROSS

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides comfort to victims of disasters; 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 visit us on Twitter at @RedCross. (PR)