Colonial Crossroads Chapter Responds To Condo Blaze in Chatham Township

AREA (April 3, 2008) — The Colonial Crossroads Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to a 10-condo fire at the Briarwood condominium complex in Chatham Township on March 31, providing emergency assistance in the form of counseling and financial assistance for those affected as well as food and beverages for displaced residents and first-responders.

“On behalf of Chatham Township, I would like to thank the Red Cross for being there in a time of need, offering support for the victims of this fire, as well as the police and fire department staff who were working on the scene,” said Chatham Township Mayor Kevin Tubbs. “It is reassuring to know that the Colonial Crossroads Chapter is our community partner. When we needed help, Red Cross volunteers were there to provide relief to the Chatham Township residents whose homes were destroyed.”

Approximately 10 Red Cross volunteers were on the scene from 4:15 – 9:15 p.m. to provide important emotional support and mental health counseling. After the fire was brought under control Red Cross volunteers assessed the damage, then provided victims with immediate financial assistance for simple necessities such as food and clothing. The Red Cross also provided first responders and displaced complex residents with food and beverages from Summit-based Marco Polo Restaurant, which supports Red Cross disaster relief operations with discounted meals.

“We’re deeply saddened for the affected families,” said Colonial Crossroads Chapter Executive Director Christy Hodde. “Devastating home fires like this one can present ongoing challenges and stir up many different feelings and thoughts. In the days since the fire, our volunteers have continued to be in contact with the victims, providing assistance and emotional support as they pick up the pieces and pull their lives back in order.

“The Red Cross also would like to help others take action to prevent and prepare for home, condo and apartment fires throughout not only Chatham Township, but also all the other towns our Red Cross Chapter serves,” added Hodde. “Residents who would like more information are encouraged to download a FREE Renter's Checklist by clicking here.

The Red Cross recommends that all renters conduct an on-site inspection of a property before signing a lease to make sure there are no visible fire hazards and that fire safety equipments is present and working. Renters should ask to see a copy of the building’s evacuation plan and find out who is responsible for maintaining the fire safety systems.

All Red Cross disaster assistance is free and provided locally by the Colonial Crossroads Chapter, which serves the residents of Berkeley Heights, Chatham Borough, Chatham Township, East Hanover, Florham Park, Long Hill Township, Madison, New Providence, Springfield and Summit. The Red Cross does not receive State or Federal funding and relies solely on donations from the community.

You can help the victims of local disasters by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross Colonial Crossroads Chapter. Donations enable the Red Cross to provide shelter, food, counseling and other assistance. Contributions may be made online at www.ccnjredcross.org, or sent to the chapter office in Summit (695 Springfield Ave., Summit, N.J. 07901) or in Madison (1 Madison Ave., Madison, N.J. 07940).