Martin Luther King Jr Day of Service Smoke Alarm Installation Project and Fire Safety 101

Written by: Harsha Jha, volunteer

Did you know that working smoke detectors cut the risk of dying in home fires by half?

The American Red Cross has an objective to install smoke detectors in homes in order to reduce the number of fire deaths in the US by 25% within five years. The aim of this campaign is to go door-to-door and install smoke alarms in neighborhoods at high-risk for home fires. The American Red Cross is installing smoke alarms throughout the National Capital Region and needs your help!

If you are looking for community service opportunities or simply want to help out, please register here. 

If you are unable to help install smoke alarms, please learn more with these fire safety tips:

Multi-Family Dwelling:

1. Identify two exits for every room
2. Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, including inside and outside each bedroom and in the basement 

Apartment Complex:

1. Install smoker alarms inside and outside each bedroom
2. If you are trapped, call 911 and hang a white sheet outside your window
3. Have a designated spot outside for everyone to meet

Single-Family Home: 

1. Identify two exits for every room
2. Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, including inside and outside each bedroom and in the basement
3. Have a designated spot outside for everyone to meet

Did you know that if a fire starts in your home, you have just two minutes to get out? Make sure that you have installed smoke alarms in the proper areas and check that your smoke alarms work. It is important to test your smoke alarms every month and replace batteries when needed. Also develop an evacuation plan with everyone you live with and practice the plan! With these tips and suggestions, you too can become a “pro” at fire safety. Don’t forget to give back to the community by installing smoke alarms if you can. Happy Martin Luther King Jr. Day!