A surge in the number of house fires in October is straining the resources of the American Red Cross Southern Tier Chapter, according to spokesman David Currie.
Cynthia Gordineer, CEO of the Southern Tier Chapter, said there were 14 fires in October, compared with four fires last October, which has prompted a call for more donations.
At 2:45 am on Oct. 28, Red Cross volunteers responded to a fire in Sidney Center that severely damaged a home, displacing nine people who were provided temporary shelter, clothing and groceries.
That same night, a family of two in Bainbridge, whose home sustained fire damage, received assistance with seasonal clothing and groceries, and another young woman with a baby lost her home in Mt. Upton. In addition to temporary housing assistance, the Red Cross provided her with food, clothing and infant supplies.
Gordineer said the Red Cross considers the period from November through early February the time when fires are most likely. The Red Cross fiscal year runs from July 1 to June 30, and the chapter is already 25 percent over budget as of the end of September.
Last year, there were 14 fires in Delaware County that affected 61 people, 14 fires in Otsego County that displaced 40 people and 23 fires involving 80 people in Chenango County. The Red Cross responded to 173 cases and helped 465 individuals. The local disaster relief fund exceeded its budget by 80 percent last fiscal year.
"Given the severe economic downturn this year, we are concerned about our ability to keep pace with the needs of our community members," Gordineer said.
Gordineer said one of the big concerns is people turning to alternative heat sources this winter due to the high cost of fuel oil.
"First of all, please be careful, especially if you are using an alternative heat source such as a woodstove or space heater, and if you need tips or information, call us or your local fire authorities," Gordineer said. "But, if the worst should happen and your family should experience a disaster, you can rest assured that the Red Cross will be there to help."
Currie said major disasters such as Hurricane Ike receive a great deal of media attention, yet the most common disaster threat is not hurricanes or floods but home fires.
The chapter responds to an incident, on average, every 3 days, and volunteers are on call 24 hours per day.
Gordineer said the Red Cross is appealing to the community to support its services, including disaster relief, services to the armed forces, preparedness and life-saving skills.
Donations can be sent to the American Red Cross, Southern Tier Chapter, 620 E. Main St., Endicott, NY 13760 or by calling 785-7207. An online donation can be made at www.southerntierredcross.org
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