The American Red Cross of North Central Ohio is assisting a family of five after their home caught fire Dec. 5 on Clinton Avenue in Sheffield Township.
The Red Cross provided assistance, such as temporary lodging, food and clothing for the immediate needs of family members, according to a news release.
Volunteers from the Red Cross will continue to help the family by providing recovery assistance, resources and referrals to community partners, the release noted.
The Sheffield Township Fire Department responded to extinguish the fire with assistance from the Lorain Fire Department, according to a Lorain Fire Department spokesperson.
Further information about the fire wasn’t available Dec. 6 from Sheffield Township Fire Department.
The American Red Cross encourages residents to consider home fire safety to protect themselves and their loved ones from fires.
The organization recommends installing smoke alarms on every level of the home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.
Additionally, the batteries should be tested monthly and replaced annually.
Developing a fire evacuation plan with all members of the household and practicing it several times a year, at different times of the day, also is recommended.
Evacuation plans should include two ways to get out of every room and a place for all members of the family to meet in safety, the release stated.
Using escape ladders for sleeping areas or homes on the second floor or above also is recommended.
Removing any fire hazards from the house in important, the release stated.
Citizens can download the all-inclusive Red Cross Emergency app which combines more than 35 emergency alerts to help keep the user safe.
The organization offers a mobile app, called Monster Guard, designed for children to teach them to prepare for emergencies at home by playing an engaging game.
Users can find the apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or visiting redcross.org/apps.
