FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. – When a fire breaks out, individuals have only a few minutes to escape and save their lives.
It’s crucial to make a plan, as fires can happen at any time. To raise awareness, the American Red Cross and the Farmington Hills Fire Department have teamed up to offer free smoke alarm installations in homes.
This initiative was highlighted during a controlled fire demonstration outside the Farmington Hills Fire Department.
The demonstration showcased how quickly fires can spread.
Lt. Brian Pankow of the Farmington Hills Fire Department noted, “Unfortunately, that’s normal now. With the synthetic materials in furnishings, laminate floors, and even clothing, fire burns faster than it ever has.”
The demonstration room took exactly 1 minute and 40 seconds to burn down. The moment the match ignited the couch fabric, the smoke alarm activated. “This proves how crucial these tools are, and every home needs multiple,” Pankow emphasized.
He continued, “We want them on every level of the floor. We want them in every sleeping area. The same goes for carbon monoxide detectors. Those are very important as well. Carbon monoxide is a silent killer; it’s odorless, colorless, and very deadly.”
The Farmington Hills Fire Department and the American Red Cross are ensuring that smoke alarms are installed and functioning correctly through their Sound the Alarm campaign, which runs until May 17.
LaToysa Rooks, Regional Disaster Officer for the American Red Cross, stated, “It’s just an opportunity to make sure that if you need smoke alarms, you can sign up for one. We’ll do the installations and provide education during this time. When we’re in your home, we’ll let you know where the smoke alarm will work best, depending on the dimensions of the home.”
Pankow added that smoke alarm installation is just the first step in keeping families safe. It’s also essential to have a plan for what to do when alarms sound and to practice that plan with children, even infants.
“So, practicing with your little one as early as possible makes it a norm,” he said. “Every few months, you should practice your escape plan. Choose a safe meeting place, like the mailbox or a neighbor’s driveway, where everyone knows to go, including your little one. From there, you can call 911.”
The fire department recommends practicing the escape plan with pets as well. In the event of a fire, once individuals are out, they need to stay out.
Pankow cautioned, “If you can’t find your dog, don’t go in to get your dog. I know that’s a hard thing, especially for dog owners, but pets often know how to escape. Going back inside puts you at risk of injury.”
He also advised against trying to grab photos or special items during an evacuation, as there isn’t enough time and it’s too dangerous.
To have a smoke alarm installed for free, contact the American Red Cross by visiting their website here.
