Two of the residents were able to get out, one was still trapped, but we were able to get there in time, rescue her and get her out and she survived as well.”

In fact, about a week ago we had a fire here in Jacksonville that had working smoke detectors. “It’s very important to have that warning system. “They give you an early alert to get out before the smoke gets so thick you can’t breathe or see,” he said. Jacksonville Fire Rescue Chief Keith Powers said there is no question that smoke alarms save lives. Three out of every five home fire deaths are caused by fires in properties with no smoke detector. A working smoke alarm reduces your risk of dying in a fire by 55%, according to the National Fire Protection Association. “There are 1,243 documented lives saved through the program across the country.” “They sign up online or call our phone number to set those appointments up,” said Smith.

The volunteers will also provide educational instruction about the importance of creating an Escape Plan for you and your family should a fire start in your home.Īmerican Red Cross spokeswoman Christian Smith said anyone is eligible for the program. The American Red Cross initiative not only provides all Northeast Florida residents access to free smoke alarms but volunteers will also install them for free. It’s in addition to a city of Jacksonville program that also offers free smoke alarms to Duval County residents. The Sound the Alarm Save a Life event runs all year. – The American Red Cross is offering free smoke alarms to residents in 35 counties, including all of Northeast Florida, to help prevent fire deaths.

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