MOBILE, Ala., September 13, 2010—The American Red Cross Alabama Gulf Coast Chapter has responded to the fire on Carl Avenue in Satsuma by providing emergency assistance for the three families affected. Red Cross emergency assistance can include food, clothing, shelter, emotional support, and referrals; the amount of assistance given is determined by a caseworker who meets with each family to assess their immediate emergency needs and provides assistance accordingly. Members of the community who wish to help can make a tax-deductible donation to the American Red Cross Alabama Gulf Coast Chapter and take action to minimize the risk of a fire occurring in their own home.

“We’re deeply saddened for those affected,” said Leisle Mims, Executive Director of the Alabama Gulf Coast Chapter Red Cross. “As we continue to work with those involved, we’d also like to help others take action to prevent and prepare for home fires throughout Baldwin, Clarke, Mobile, Monroe, and West Escambia Counties.”

The Red Cross recommends installing smoke alarms on each level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside of sleeping areas. Use the test button to test each smoke alarm once a month. All smoke alarm batteries need to be replaced once a year. Every family should have a fire escape plan that includes at least two escape routes from every room in the home. Also chose a convenient meeting place at a safe distance from your home. Practice your escape plan at least twice a year with all household members.

Last year, the Alabama Gulf Coast Chapter responded to over 200 fires (during Fiscal Year July 2009-June 2010). The Red Cross depends on the generous support of area residents to respond to our neighbors who are affected by home fires. You can help the Red Cross be ready to respond and help fire victims by making a financial contribution to the Alabama Gulf Coast Chapter today. To make a financial donation please call (251) 544-6100, or mail a check to American Red Cross Alabama Gulf Coast Chapter, P.O. Box 1764, Mobile, AL 36633.

For more Red Cross fire safety and preparedness information visit www.redcross.org/homefires or www.redcrossalcoast.org.