(PATOKA, IL) — American Red Cross volunteers responded to a home fire on the 2800 block of Berry Road in Patoka on Tuesday, January 3, 2017. After a home fire, Red Cross volunteers ensure that everyone affected has a safe place to stay, food, clothing and emotional support. We are currently assisting one adult affected by the Patoka fire. In the American Red Cross Serving South Central Illinois area annually on average, more than 400 families receive assistance after a disaster. In the fiscal year ending June 30, 2016, the American Red Cross serving South Central Illinois assisted 502 families after a disaster. Red Cross volunteers on the scene were members of your local Disaster Action Team, a group of specially trained volunteers who respond to the scene of a disaster when called upon. The Red Cross recommends two easy steps to help protect your home and loved ones from a fire: get a smoke alarm and create a fire escape plan.