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The City of Poughkeepsie, New York, is collaborating with the American Red Cross to enhance home safety by offering free smoke alarm installations. This initiative, part of the "Sound the Alarm" event, will take place on Saturday (January 25). Working smoke alarms can significantly reduce the risk of death in home fires by half, according to the American Red Cross.
Residents and businesses in Poughkeepsie are encouraged to ensure they have functioning smoke alarms. Those in need of an installation can contact the Eastern New York Preparedness Team to schedule an appointment. The Red Cross and local fire department volunteers will be installing the alarms and providing fire safety education.
The American Red Cross emphasizes the importance of smoke alarms, noting that seven people die daily from home fires, with children and the elderly being most affected. The initiative also includes specialized alarms for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.
To request an installation, residents can call 518-694-5121 or visit the Red Cross website for more information. The event is part of the broader Home Fire Campaign, which aims to reduce fire-related deaths and injuries across the country.
