Officials encourage citizens to check smoke alarms

CASTLE HAYNE, NC (WWAY) — There is a major push to urge you to make sure your smoke alarms are working properly.

“A smoke alarm may not prevent a fire from happening, but it gives you a fighting change to survive if it does,” said Cape Fear Chapter Red Cross Disaster Program Specialist James Jarvis.

According to the Red Cross, 60% of all fire fatalities in the US happen in a home that did not have a working smoke alarm which is why fire officials like New Hanover Fire Department Deputy Chief Frank Meyer are stepping in.

“Reduce your risk of being a home fire fatality by 50% by just their presence in the home,” said Meyer.

The Red Cross, fire fighters, and volunteers will come together Saturday to install free smoke alarms for residents in portions of northern New Hanover and Pender counties.

Jarvis also says having an escape plan is a must.

As of September 30, the Red Cross says 27 lives have been saved in the US thanks to these devices.

The kitchen is the heart of the home, especially at Thanksgiving, but officials say that is where most fires start.

“Holidays are a busy time, you have family visiting,” said WFD Community Educator Wendy Giannini-King. “Keep the kitchen clear especially children. Keep all the children that are participating with you in active cooking, just keep them out of the kitchen and away from your feet and hot things.”

Thanksgiving is the leading day of the year for home fires involving cooking equipment.

“You’re baking your turkey for long periods of time first make sure everyone is using a timer.”

If a fire occurs, get out immediately. Experts say you have only about 2 minutes to do so before it’s too late.

If you would like to request a smoke alarm in your home, please call the New Hanover Fire Department at (910) 798-7420 or Pender County Fire Marshal’s Office at (910) 259-1210.

If you would like to volunteer this weekend, contact James Jarvis at james.jarvis3@redcross.org or via phone at (910) 762-2683.