HOW TO GET A FREE SMOKE DETECTOR
To apply for a free smoke detector, fill out an application at www.cityofmiddletown.org/fire/detector.aspx
The Middletown Division of Fire is continuing its smoke detector giveaway for eligible residents as part of National Fire Prevention Week, which starts next week.
Middletown firefighters have given away about 60 smoke detectors to residents who needed one in their home after they filled out an application on the city’s website, Fire Chief Paul Lolli told us.
A donation from the Middletown Kiwanis Club and a “significant discount” offered through Lowe’s Home Improvement store allowed the fire department to purchase the smoke detectors, Lolli said.
Other community organizations periodically make donations so more smoke detectors can be purchased for those who need them, he said.
“Residential home fires are the leading cause of fire deaths in the U.S.,” Lolli said. “Smoke detectors are very important as they can alert you when you are asleep or in another part of the house.”
Three out of five home fire deaths happen from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms, according to the National Fire Prevention Association. Working smoke alarms cuts the risk of dying in reported home fires in half, according to the group.
The NFPA recommends replacing smoke detectors every 10 years.
Lolli said smoke detectors help to reduce the number of fatalities, injuries and damages because the fire department is able to respond more quickly..
After an application is reviewed, the resident will be notified to pick up the smoke detector at Fire Headquarters, Lolli said. In addition, for elderly or infirmed residents who need a smoke detector but are unable to pick it up or install it, Lolli said firefighters will come to their home and assist them.
Residents who rent their homes or apartments are not eligible for the giveaway program as city’s Property Maintenance Code requires landlords to ensure there are working smoke detectors in rental structures. However, if the owner of the property is unwilling to provide an alarm or is unresponsive, the renter is encouraged to contact the Division of Fire at 513-425-7996.
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