Red Cross helping Maine fire victims

BANGOR – Seven families who lost their homes in fires over the past 72 hours around the state are receiving emergency disaster relief from the Pine Tree Chapter of the American Red Cross.

Fires in Garland, Mars Hill, Orland, Limestone, Orono and Caribou took place from Monday to Wednesday, destroying six houses and resulting in three fatalities, according to Susan Bell, Pine Tree Chapter executive director.

A total of 16 people were victims of the fires, she said.

The chapter staff is providing shelter, clothing, food and mental health counseling to the families involved, Bell said Friday.

“Each family has a caseworker that will help them get back on their feet,” Bell said. “Some of them are staying with friends, but the majority are in hotels right now.”

Because several of the fires were caused by unsafe heating devices, the chapter emphasizes careful use of wood stoves and electric heaters, said Hillary Roberts, emergency services assistant director.

“We hope we can educate other families so that they don’t have to go through these losses,” Roberts said. “We want to remind people to please be safe as we move through these climate changes.”

The chapter, which is the second-largest in the country, provides services to Penobscot, Hancock, Waldo, Piscataquis, Knox, Aroostook and Washington counties.

Pine Tree services are made possible by local donations and volunteers.

Monetary contributions can be made by contacting the Pine Tree Chapter of the American Red Cross at 33 Mildred Ave., or calling 941-2903.