Home fires claim seven lives every day, but recent studies find that having working smoke alarms can cut the risk of death by 60 percent.
A 2024 report by the National Fire Protection Association found that although most houses in the United States have smoke detectors, about one in five households have at least one alarm that doesn’t work.
The Marshall Fire Department is available to help install and check smoke detectors, and through a partnership with the American Red Cross, residents might qualify for a free device.
“Working smoke alarms save lives. They give families the precious seconds they need to get out safely,” said Marshall Fire Chief David Rainwater. “If your alarms aren’t working or you need them installed, the Marshall Fire Department and the Red Cross are ready to help.”
The Red Cross’s North Texas Home Fire Campaign helps save lives by installing free smoke alarms in homes that don't have them, and by educating people about home fire safety.
As part of the program, Marshall firefighters and trained Red Cross volunteers install free smoke alarms in homes throughout Marshall and ensure that existing alarms are functioning properly. They can also help citizens with fire escape planning and home fire safety education.
“Partnerships like this one are invaluable and strengthen the impact and reach of the campaign to make homes safer in our local community,” said Sarah Jeter, Community Disaster Program Manager for the American Red Cross, Tyler/Longview Territory.
To determine eligibility for a free smoke alarm, the Home Fire Campaign prioritizes homes that:
- Cannot afford to purchase or install smoke alarms on their own
- Have non-working or missing smoke alarms
- Have residents who are elderly, disabled, or have access/functional needs
- Have children in the household
Residents can request free smoke alarm installation by completing a form in person at the Marshall Fire Department office at 601 S. Grove St., clicking this link or scanning the QR code, or by contacting the American Red Cross directly by calling the Longview Office at 903-753-2091.