By John Sharp
The Grandview Fire Department has teamed up with the American Red Cross of Northwest Missouri to deliver and install free smoke detectors at no charge for Grandview homeowners who need them.
Grandview Deputy Chief and Fire Marshal Rodney Baldwin said fire fighters and/or Red Cross volunteers can usually deliver and install the smoke detectors with 10-year batteries donated by the Red Cross at a time convenient for homeowners within three days of receiving the request.
Baldwin said it’s recommended to have at least one smoke detector on every level of a residence, and residents should check them monthly by pushing the test button.
He urged residents to develop a fire escape plan that identifies two escape routes from every room in the home and a meeting place a short distance from the home where family members can meet after escaping. He said residents should practice the escape plan at least twice a year, paying particular attention to young children and older adults who may require assistance.
To request delivery and installation of detectors Grandview homeowners should call the Fire Department at 816-316-4849 or the American Red Cross at 816-385-5955. Business owners and landlords are required to supply and install their own detectors, Baldwin said.
The Kansas City Fire Department also has a program to deliver and install up to two free smoke detectors with 10-year batteries in KCMO residences that need them.
Persons should call 816-513-4648 to request them.