As Fire Risk Rises, Red Cross Offers Free Smoke Alarms

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- As the weather starts to cool, the risk for house fires goes up.

From unsafe heating sources, to cooking dangers and light decorations, the winter months are the busiest and often deadliest for firefighters. Yet, one simple tool, a smoke alarm, could save lives

It is a product that is little more than plastic, metal and some wiring, yet the materials in a smoke alarm have lifesaving qualities.

"Having something like this when you're sleeping is imperative to be able to bring safety up," said Ryc Lyden of the American Red Cross.

The American Red Cross has a program to put one in every home. For three years, the organization has enlisted volunteers to install the devices for free.

"The object today is safety. We're going to bring everyone up to speed that we can," Lyden said.

Jeremy Jacobsen of Minneapolis signed up for the program. As the block leader, Jeremy wanted to educate his neighbors about the program and highlight the importance of fire safety. He knows firsthand the impact fire can have on a family.

"When I was two years old my family home was destroyed by fire and I had to be rescued by fire department," he said.

Participants aren't just signing up for a free alarm. Volunteers like Rick Graft discuss overall fire safety like escape routes and check existing alarms throughout the home.

"There's a need for it, we're trying to get the word out," said Volunteer Rick Graft.

The program serves as an important reminder as fire crews prepare for the busy season. From July 2015 to June of this year, the Red Cross offered assistance at 662 fires around the state.

"We've been in some homes with not one smoking alarm that's working, so we leave knowing they're in better shape than when we got there," Graft said.

Rick swapped out an expired smoke alarm in Jeremy's living room. A simple update that left Jeremy with an added layer of security.

"I think it's something everyone should have because it's a simple safety thing that could save your life," Jacobsen said.

The smoke alarms are free and available to anyone, you just have to sign up. Call (612) 460 - 3674 or visit getasmokealarm.org or text "ALARM" to 844-811-0100