‘Sound the Alarm’ campaign offers free smoke detectors to those in need

SUPPLY, NC (WWAY) — The North Carolina State Fire Marshall is teaming up with the American Red Cross to provide free smoke detectors to those in need. 

On Saturday, community volunteers along with the American Red Cross, State Fire Marshall, State Farm, and the Supply Fire Department went to houses in the area to install new smoke detectors free of charge.  

For those who have hearing disabilities, smoke detectors that vibrate underneath a bed to alert the homeowner during the night were also offered. 

During the installation, experts also talk with homeowners about how they can better prevent fire. 

Allan Buchanan of the State Fire Marshall and James Jarvis of the American Red Cross noted that having detectors in multiple rooms can mean the difference between life and death. 

“We know that at least 50% of homes with fire fatalities don’t have working smoke alarms,” Buchanan said. 

“Every home we’re going to visit, we’re going to double the likelihood of them surviving a home fire,” Jarvis said. 

Buchanan added there have been 56 fire-related deaths in the state this year alone.  

If you need a smoke detector, click here to schedule an installation free of charge.