From Fires to Family Notifications: The Vital Role of the Red Cross

RUTHERFORD COUNTY, TN - Over the past month and a half, Rutherford County has experienced dangerously low temperatures. As the temperature dipped to single digits, there was an increase in residential fires. As reported in previous news stories, multiple counties have seen heightened fire activity due to malfunctioning heaters or heaters placed too close to flammable items within homes.

When a home catches fire, families can become displaced and the Red Cross is notified, allowing chapter volunteers to spring into action and offer assistance. This support begins with Red Cross volunteers who respond to the scene of the fire as firefighters battle the blaze. The volunteers provide the impacted family with temporary shelter, clothing, and even food.

In an effort to decrease the number of residential fires, John Mitchell, executive director of the local Red Cross, told WGNS that volunteers  install free smoke detectors in homes… You can call the local chapter of the Red Cross at (615) 893-4272 for more details about obtaining a free smoke detector. Volunteers are also needed to help with this important program…

Mitchell also shed light on the Red Cross's essential role in supporting military families, including how they facilitate important notifications for service members stationed overseas or across the country when loved ones at home are in critical condition or when there has been a death in the family…

Full Podcast Above Article (under photo above article): In this episode, local Red Cross Executive Director John Mitchell joins host Scott Walker to explore the vital mission and responsibilities of the American Red Cross. They discuss the organization's rapid response to an increase in residential fires and how dedicated volunteers are always ready to help those in need. John also sheds light on the Red Cross's essential role in supporting military families, including how they facilitate important notifications for service members stationed overseas or across the country when loved ones are in critical condition or when there has been a death in the family. Tune in to learn more about how the Red Cross makes a difference in our community.

The American Red Cross Heart of Tennessee serves Bedford, Cannon, Clay, Coffee, DeKalb, Franklin, Jackson, Lincoln, Marshall, Moore, Overton, Picket, Putnam, Rutherford, Warren and White counties in Tennessee.

Local Red Cross Contact Information:

501 Memorial Blvd. Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Phone: (615) 893-4272