Prairie State Wire

State and local fire safety officials gathered at the Lansing Fire Department to emphasize the importance of working smoke alarms and promote a no-cost installation program for residents in the Chicago area. Illinois State Fire Marshal James A. Rivera highlighted the state's commitment to community safety through programs like "Be Alarmed!" He noted, "Sadly, in 2023 there were 89 residential fire deaths in Illinois with the majority of these deaths occurring in homes without working smoke detectors."

Lansing Fire Chief Chad Kooyenga emphasized the significance of working smoke alarms, stating, "Working smoke alarms can make a life-saving difference in a home fire, giving people the time to get out safely." According to the National Fire Protection Association, having functioning smoke alarms reduces the risk of dying in a home fire by 54%.

Chicago Fire Commissioner Annette Nance-Holt reaffirmed their dedication to ensuring residents have working smoke alarms and an effective escape plan. Lansing Fire Department Lieutenant Randall Wright described establishing a strong Community Risk Reduction program as a priority, with smoke alarm installations being crucial.

Philip Zaleski, Executive Director of Camp I Am Me by Illinois Fire Safety Alliance, discussed their collaboration with OSFM and over 300 Illinois fire departments. The partnership has resulted in more than 35,000 distributed smoke alarms. Zaleski praised Peoria Fire Department's efforts, noting they installed over 600 alarms since joining.

Camp I Am Me announced receiving a $299,000 grant from FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighter Grant program. This funding will purchase additional sealed battery smoke alarms and bed shaker aids for those hard-of-hearing or deaf.

"Be Alarmed!" is co-administered by Camp I Am Me and OSFM. It provides free educational materials and smoke alarms across Illinois communities at no cost due to CIAM and OSFM funding.

For more information about this program: https://www.ifsa.org/prevention-resources/smoke-alarm/.