Resources We Provide

In addition to general fire safety information, RR Foundation offers direct support and resources to individuals and families affected by residential fires.

Emergency Support & Care Kits

  • Emergency care kits with clothing and hygiene items.
  • Basic food and grocery support where possible.
  • Connections to local shelters or short-term housing partners.

Guidance & Case Support

  • Help understanding next steps after a home fire.
  • Support with replacing key documents (ID, insurance info, etc.).
  • Referrals to partner agencies for additional services.

Education & Community Resources

  • Fire safety workshops and community presentations.
  • Printable guides and checklists for families.
  • Information about local support groups and counselors.

Before a Fire

Create a plan, install smoke alarms, and practice with your household.

  • Home fire escape plan template
  • Smoke alarm placement tips
  • Preparedness checklist

During a Fire

Stay calm, get out quickly, and never re-enter a burning building.

  • What to do if you see smoke
  • How to escape safely
  • Talking to children about emergencies

After a Fire

Focus on safety first, then connect with support and start recovery.

  • First steps after a fire
  • Document & insurance tips
  • Emotional support resources

Before a Fire: Be Prepared

Preparing now can save lives later. These steps can help reduce risk and make it easier for your family to respond quickly if a fire happens.

Make a Home Fire Escape Plan

  • Draw a simple map of your home with all exits.
  • Plan at least two ways out of each sleeping area if possible.
  • Choose a safe meeting place outside, away from the building.
  • Practice your escape plan at least twice a year.

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  • Install alarms on every level of your home.
  • Place alarms inside and outside each sleeping area.
  • Test alarms monthly and replace batteries at least yearly.
  • Replace the entire alarm unit every 10 years or as recommended.

Talk With Children

  • Explain what a smoke alarm sounds like and what it means.
  • Teach them to go outside and stay out during a fire.
  • Practice crawling low under smoke together.
  • Remind them to never hide from firefighters.

During a Fire: Stay Safe

In a fire, every second counts. Focus on getting yourself and your family out safely.

If You See Smoke or Flames

  • Alert everyone in the home immediately.
  • Leave your belongings behind — go straight to the exit.
  • Close doors behind you if you can do so safely.
  • Call 911 from outside the building.

If There Is Smoke in the Hallway

  • Stay low and crawl under the smoke to your exit.
  • If your main exit is blocked, use your second way out.
  • If you’re trapped, close the door and seal gaps with cloth.
  • Signal for help at a window if possible.

Important “Do Nots”

  • Do not go back inside for pets or belongings.
  • Do not open hot doors — feel with the back of your hand first.
  • Do not use elevators during a fire in a multi-story building.

After a Fire: First Steps

After a fire, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Focus on safety, basic needs, and getting connected with support.

Safety & Immediate Needs

  • Wait for officials to say it’s safe before re-entering.
  • Contact local disaster relief organizations for emergency help.
  • Arrange temporary housing if your home is not safe.

Documents & Insurance

  • Contact your insurance company as soon as possible.
  • Ask for a copy of the fire report from the fire department.
  • Start a list of damaged items for insurance or assistance.

Emotional Support

  • Talk with trusted friends, family, or a counselor.
  • Children may need extra reassurance and routine.
  • Reach out to local mental health or support groups if needed.

Helpful External Resources

The following organizations offer additional information and support related to fire safety and disaster recovery in the United States.

  • Local Fire Department: Check your city or county website for contact information and safety programs.
  • American Red Cross: Information on home fire safety, preparedness, and disaster services.
  • FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency): Disaster assistance, preparedness resources, and recovery guidance.
  • 211 Helpline (where available): Call 211 to get connected with local community resources and services.