Since the beginning of December, the Red Cross has responded to 26 single- family fires and one multi- family fire. The American Red Cross of Central South Carolina responds to approximately one disaster every 17 hours, the majority of which are house fires.

From July 1 - Nov. 30, the Red Cross responded to 143 disasters and spent nearly $185,000 on disaster relief services.

"I am extremely concerned by the high number of single family house fires this early in the winter season," said Scott Salemme, chief executive officer of the American Red Cross of Central South Carolina. "These disasters are taking a toll on our local disaster relief budget. Despite current economic conditions, we need the community's support now more than ever."

To make a donation to the Red Cross, mail to P.O. Box 91, Columbia, SC 29202; go to www.CentralSCRedCross. org; or call 803-540-1225.