Not being prepared for fires can be costly. Are you wondering how much it costs other agencies to help families recover from a fire? Alison Bono of the Mid-Michigan American Red Cross says:
“For a family of four it costs us about a thousand dollars to help them get back on their feet with prescriptions and clothes and a voucher in the hotel.”
And as the cold continues, Bono admits she’s concerned.
“Due to the economic climate here in Michigan, we’re very worried. We’re worried about the people that are using alternative methods to heat their homes and maybe not safe methods, you know, so I think we’re going to see an increase in home fires and apartment fires.”
The American Red Cross is unable to help everyone after a fire, and so is the government. Bono explained in her interview with WLNS that the Red Cross’ budget is tight, which means that some residents will have to rely on themselves.
You can prepare to recoup after a fire now, by learning fire safety tips and techniques, and by having emergency kits in your home and car should you need to evacuate. The education and kits will cost you much less than one thousand dollars, the cost to get a hotel room, eat out and buy other necessities due to fire loss.