The Dyer Fire Department in cooperation with the State Fire Marshal’s office is offering to install free smoke alarms in the community. The statewide distribution of smoke alarms is part of the State Fire Marshal’s effort to both educate and equip Tennesseans to incorporate Fire Safety into their daily lives.
“We want residents to make sure they have functional smoke alarms in their homes, as well as a rehearsed fire-escape plan. These are tools proven to save lives – because even one fire death is one too many,” says State Fire Marshal Julie Mix McPeak.
The alarms are free, but must be installed by the fire department. The alarms are installed based on availability.
“We are excited to be offering this program for our residents,” said Dyer Fire Chief Brandon Rudd. Fire can spread through a home in a matter of minutes and smoke alarms can give residents the warning needed to get out safely.
To request installation, you can complete an online form (click) or call the Dyer City Hall at (731) 692-3767. A member of the Dyer Fire Department will contact you to schedule the installation.
In addition to having working smoke alarms, follow these other important tips to make sure your home is fire-safe:
- Always stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling, or broiling food.
- Check to see that matches and lighters are kept up high in a cabinet with a childproof lock.
- Develop a home fire escape plan with two ways out of every room and an outside meeting place. Share and practice the plan with every member of the household.
- Keep portable space heaters and candles 3 feet away from anything that can burn, including people, furniture, and pets.
- Always turn off portable space heaters when you leave the room or go to bed.
- Have the chimney cleaned and checked regularly.
- Do not smoke in bed.
- Make sure that all matches and ashes are cool before being thrown away.
- Make sure that extension cords are in good condition and are used to power small items only – never major appliances.
For more information on fire safety, you can visit the State Fire Marshal’s Office Get Alarmed Program at https://www.tn.gov/commerce/article/fire-get-alarmed.