RENO --  The American Red Cross, the Reno Fire Department and Hope Worldwide volunteers will honor the service of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by canvassing Reno neighborhoods to provide tips on fire safety and prevention, and to remind area residents that home fires are one disaster that can be prevented

On Saturday, January 19, 2013, volunteers will take to the streets and talk with people who are at home about ways to heat and cook safely, the value of smoke alarms and the need to create and practice a household fire escape plan. Fire safety and prevention door hangers in English and in Spanish will be provided to all homes volunteers visit, and left for neighbors who are not at home.

"Anyone can be affected by a fire, regardless of background or geographic location, so when a volunteer rings your doorbell to encourage you to take the simple steps necessary to protect your family and home from fire, we hope you will take action," state Clara Andriola, CEO of the Northern Nevada Chapter of the American Red Cross.

The Northern Nevada Chapter responded to 121 disasters last year. The majority of these were home fires. In addition, according to the National Fire Protection Association, fires claim nine lives every day in the U.S. Make sure you and your loved ones are not part of these statistics.

The Event Orientation will begin at the Evelyn Mount Community Center at 10:00 AM, with opening remarks from City of Reno Vice-Mayor Sharon Zadra. Canvassing will go until 4:00 PM that evening. Breakfast will be provided.

Lifesaving fire safety and prevention information is also available on the American Red Cross public website, www.redcross.org. For additional information or to volunteer, contact your local Red Cross Chapter at (775) 856-1000.

The Northern Nevada Chapter of the American Red Cross covers 87,000 square miles with a population of more than 670,000 people. Our chapter territory is from Tonopah north, with our main chapter in Reno and branch offices in Elko, Incline Village and Winnemucca.

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies more than 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission.For more information about becoming a volunteer, health and safety classes, or making a donation, call 775-856-1000 or visit our website at www.nevada.redcross.org.