Detector distribution program
A smoke detector installation project, instituted by the Starkville, Miss., Fire Department, has developed into an ongoing community-wide fire safety program.
The program, which evolved from a suggestion by A. K. Rosenhan, a member of the Starkville department, provides free smoke detectors to the city’s low-income elderly, invalid and handicapped. Rosenhan pointed out that the people having the greatest need for smoke detectors are usually the ones least able to afford them.
Smoke detectors are donated by individuals, and financial contributions for the purchase of detectors are made by local businesses and civic organizations. Starkville’s Chamber of Commerce also assists with detector and monetary contributions.
Records are kept of program donors and a card Is mailed to them when the smoke detectors are operating.
People wishing to receive a smoke detector call the fire department and request to be part of the program. The requesters are asked their age, whether they live alone, and if they are physically handicapped.
The smoke detectors are installed by Starkville fire fighters, who use this home visit as an opportunity to inspect and point out any obvious fire hazards that the people may not be aware of.
The program began last October and, at presstime, about 60 smoke detectors had been installed.
Plans are underway to develop a smoke detector installation program aimed at the city’s apartment complexes for retirees.
