Local Red Cross Dealing With More Fire Cases
Agency Assists With Victims Of 10 Fires In Recent Weeks
Updated: 4:45 pm CST January 3, 2009
MADISON, Wis. -- The Badger chapter of the Red Cross has been working to assist victims of 10 separate fires in the past three weeks.
VIDEO: Watch The ReportThe agency said the biggest ally in dealing with the increase in fires is the help of the community.The cause of a Stoughton house fire on Christmas Eve is still being investigated, but authorities said a natural gas leak caused an explosion that displaced two families. The Red Cross said both families are receiving help and have since found new places to stay with the help of local agencies."It's always more challenging around this time of the year, especially with donations and the economy, we rely on the generosity of public to help us respond to these fires and provide the assistance to these families," said Nick Cluppert, who works in the Community Preparedness Department of the American Red Cross.The Red Cross said individuals looking for cheaper, potentially less safe ways to heat their homes could be a contributing factor in the recent spike in fires.The Badger chapter of the Red Cross sets aside roughly $100,000 a year for fire assistance, and on average will see about 100 fires a year. But this fiscal year, the group is on track to exceed expectations.The Red Cross acknowledged that the tough economy could lead to dwindling resources, but the group said it will work with outside agencies to fill those needs.Right now, relief such as hotel vouchers and rent assistance aren't in danger of going away, but the Red Cross said donations help provide assistance and are very helpful even after the holidays.Those interested in donating to the American Red Cross Badger chapter can get more information at this Web site.
VIDEO: Watch The ReportThe agency said the biggest ally in dealing with the increase in fires is the help of the community.The cause of a Stoughton house fire on Christmas Eve is still being investigated, but authorities said a natural gas leak caused an explosion that displaced two families. The Red Cross said both families are receiving help and have since found new places to stay with the help of local agencies."It's always more challenging around this time of the year, especially with donations and the economy, we rely on the generosity of public to help us respond to these fires and provide the assistance to these families," said Nick Cluppert, who works in the Community Preparedness Department of the American Red Cross.The Red Cross said individuals looking for cheaper, potentially less safe ways to heat their homes could be a contributing factor in the recent spike in fires.The Badger chapter of the Red Cross sets aside roughly $100,000 a year for fire assistance, and on average will see about 100 fires a year. But this fiscal year, the group is on track to exceed expectations.The Red Cross acknowledged that the tough economy could lead to dwindling resources, but the group said it will work with outside agencies to fill those needs.Right now, relief such as hotel vouchers and rent assistance aren't in danger of going away, but the Red Cross said donations help provide assistance and are very helpful even after the holidays.Those interested in donating to the American Red Cross Badger chapter can get more information at this Web site.
Previous Stories:
- December 27, 2008: House Fire Brings Stoughton Family Together
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