Program Installs Smoke Detectors in Homes of Elderly and Disabled

(Little Rock, AR—June 27, 2006) Little Rock City Director Joan Adcock and Fire Chief Rhoda Mae Kerr today announced the City’s “Save a Life” program. Joining in the announcement were representatives from Rotary Club 99 and CareLink.

“Save a Life” was funded, in part, by a donation from the Little Rock Rotary Club 99 and will broaden the effectiveness of the City’s smoke detector program by partnering with outside agencies to receive the names and addresses of elderly and disabled persons in Little Rock that may need a smoke detector installed free of charge. CareLink is making referrals to the Fire Department. Area Wal-Mart stores have donated the batteries for the detectors.

“This is a success story of corporate and private citizens working together with government to make a difference in people’s lives—perhaps even saving them,” said Director Adcock.

Additionally, after each fire run firefighters will ask residents if the have a working smoke alarm in their house. If not, each fire apparatus will carry a supply of smoke alarms and batteries in order to install the alarms.

According to Chief Kerr, “This program will reduce damage to property, but will more importantly avoid tragedies by warning residents about fire. This early warning allows them the chance to get out of the house when seconds matter.”

For more information on eligibility and obtaining a detector, citizens are asked to call 918-3710.
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