Colonial Crossroad's Disaster Action Team Responds to Two Fires in Chatham
The Colonial Crossroads Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to a multi-unit apartment fire at approximately 11:30pm December 25 at the Chatham Hill Apartments in Chatham Township. Fire departments from Green Village, Chatham Borough, Chatham Township, Morris Plains and New Vernon responded to the call that left 30 apartments without power and electricity.
The Red Cross Disaster Action Team (DAT) worked with the fire departments and property manager to locate clients, establish shelter and provide food and necessary support. In addition, the team provided support for the firemen, including warm beverages for five hours as the fire was extinguished and the building searched and secured.
DAT leader and Madison resident Julie Siciliano says, “This is a tough situation for everyone involved. This was a substantial fire that has required a lot of manpower. It seems that many residents may be away for the holidays but it is imperative that we account for everyone and make sure that all people affected by the fire have shelter, food and medicines, if necessary. It is freezing this evening and we are working closely with Lt. George Petersen of the Chatham Township Police Department and Cornelia Dino, property manager, to determine the whereabouts of all residents.”
Chatham Hill Apartments property manager Cornelia Dino says, “We are working closely with the Red Cross to move some of the elderly residents into vacant apartments. The Red Cross is providing cots, blankets, towels and comfort kits for these residents. We are extremely grateful they are here with us tonight.”
Two days later the DAT responded to a home fire in Chatham Borough. A family with young children stood on the sidewalk as their home went up in flames. Disaster Director Barb Chestnut and a team of volunteers were one the scene to provide tangible next steps and help the residents replace immediate necessities.
We receive no funding from national Red Cross for local disasters like this. Financial donations to replace our disaster fund are greatly needed.
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