TOLLAND – Coming up in the next few weeks, Tolland residents will have the opportunity to have smoke alarms installed in their homes free of charge.
In a press release on August 11, the American Red Cross announced that their National Home Fire Campaign is partnering with the Tolland Fire Department for this program.
Mary Nathan, the Disaster Program Manager for the Western Massachusetts region of the American Red Cross, was quoted in the press release on the importance of a program like this one.
Tolland residents will have an opportunity to replace their 10-year-old smoke alarms. (WNG File Photo)
“Seven times a day someone in this country dies in a home fire and we have witnessed that tragedy right here in Western Massachusetts,” said Nathan. “Smoke alarms save lives.”
The event will kick off on Sept. 23 at 7:30 a.m. at the Tolland Fire Department. In order for residents to be eligible to receive a smoke alarm, they have to meet two areas of criteria:
- The home was built prior to 1975
- The current smoke detectors are 10 years old or older
Those installing the devices will consist of an American Red Cross volunteer and a Tolland firefighter. The two individuals will also be able to educate homeowners about fire safety and being able to prepare themselves for a fire.
According to Pat Storey, Treasurer for the Tolland Fire Department, there are around 200 homes in Tolland that were built before 1975.
Storey is hoping that residents who qualiy will take advantage of this opportunity.
“We’re very much looking forward to it,” said Storey. “It’s a good event for the community.”
If your house and smoke detector meets the criteria and you’re interested in this program, register by contacting the Tolland Fire Department at 413-258-2859. The deadline to register is Sept. 15.
