By: Keeta Bell, Regional Communications Manager

“I think it’s wonderful for the community to come together and make sure people have what they need,” said College Park resident Alberta Ingram. “Especially something as important as a fire alarm.”

This is the sentiment that was shared from a homeowner during a recent smoke alarm blitz, as the American Red Cross installed free smoke alarms and shared home fire education throughout the neighborhood.

Every day, home fires claim seven lives across the United States. These tragedies often occur in homes without working smoke alarms, leaving families vulnerable to deadly fires. However, having a functioning smoke alarm can cut the risk of death by half. That’s why the Home Fire Campaign is such an important part of the Red Cross mission. This lifesaving initiative provides free smoke alarms and fire safety education to communities in need.

The Red Cross of Georgia teamed up with the College Park Fire Department and the East Point College Park Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority for a smoke alarm blitz. Together, they installed 42 free smoke alarms and provided essential home fire education to residents.

“I came because this event is very important. We’re actually giving back and giving people the chance to understand the importance of fire alarms in the home,” said Wanda Battle, a Red Cross Georgia volunteer. “If they’re not working, we actually do install them for you.”

As part of the Home Fire Campaign, the Red Cross annually organizes Sound the Alarm events across the county. These efforts have already saved more than 2,000 lives, including 255 here in Georgia, and continue to make a lasting impact on communities.
This year, Georgia’s National Sound the Alarm events will take place from March 1 to March 29. Red Cross workers and local fire departments will visit homes to:

• Install free smoke alarms in households that lack them.
• Provide fire safety tips and training to educate families on fire prevention. 
• Help develop personalized fire escape plans for quick and safe evacuations.
• Demonstrate simple home modifications to reduce fire hazards

The importance of fire safety can’t be overstated. A working smoke alarm is often the difference between life and death. If you or someone you know needs a smoke alarm, requesting an appointment is simple—just fill out a form on the American Red Cross website.

Join the American Red Cross in making Georgia homes safer. Sign up today to volunteer by heading to Sound the Alarm Georgia.