Red Cross Supports Fire Victims
When someone says American Red Cross, the images that probably pop into your head are humanitarian aid and relief for the underprivileged.
But did you know the charity organization is instrumental in helping victims of fires and other local problems get back on their feet?
You really can’t tell by looking at just the exterior of the home, but a fire broke out on Sunday night at 830 Maplewood Dr. in Idaho Falls.
Firefighters said the basement was filled with flames, forcing the man inside to get out fast.
“We were all in the house watching a movie and heard a knock at the door. He said there was a fire in the house, so we called the cops,” said neighbor Lindsay Moss.
Moss recalls the night her neighbor used her phone to call in help to save his home from burning down.
“From what he said, he thought it was caused by a candle but I’m not for sure,” said Moss.
Regardless of the cause, unforeseen disasters like this happen all the time, which is why the Red Cross keeps bags of necessities handy.
District Manager Trevor Covington said Sunday was no exception. They’ve offered the fire victim three days of food and shelter.
You’d be surprised at the little things you forget when running out of a burning home like the one on Maplewood.
“We provided clothing and even shoes because people make it out of their house without shoes. You don’t stop to put your shoes on before you run out,” said Covington.
The help doesn’t stop there.
Red Cross volunteers provide support in the form of mental health follow-ups for the badly shaken.
“We do this just to make sure that everyone is doing OK. It can be a really traumatic event,” said Covington.
Traumatic for everyone involved.
“Oh yeah. That’s a little close to home,” said Moss.
Unfortunately, Local News 8 was unable to make contact with anyone who’s been living in the house.
The man who ran out on Sunday has no phone, according to his neighbors.
The Idaho Falls Fire Department was able to put the fire out quickly, saving much of the home on Maplewood this week.
The Red Cross is always looking for volunteers to help in various capacities. For information on joining, visit this link.
