American Red Cross Responds to Dozens of Holiday House Fires

The number of residential fires for the winter heating season continues to grow in the region with the American Red Cross reporting it has rendered assistance in over three dozen fires in Central and Western New York since December 23. 

Cases handled by the Red Cross over recent weeks include 20 in Western New York, five each in Central New York and the Finger Lakes, 14 in the Rochester area and one in Chenango County. 

Emergency assistance, including temporary housing, food, clothing and health services has been provided for 132 people.

Residents are urged to be aware and cautious as the majority of the heating season still lies ahead.

People can get information on how they can make donations by visiting redcross.org or calling 1-800-REDCROSS.  Information on fire safety and resources can be found at www.redcross.org/homefires.