photo by: Lawrence-Douglas County Fire Medical

Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms were installed in North Lawrence homes during an "alarm blitz" on Oct. 12, 2024.

In a recent “alarm blitz,” the American Red Cross and Lawrence-Douglas County Fire Medical joined forces to install dozens of smoke alarms in North Lawrence homes, and they hope to do the same thing next year in another part of town.

On Oct. 12, the two agencies as part of Fire Prevention Week provided 65 smoke alarms in over 30 homes north of the river. Each house was offered free smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms and fire safety tips, according to a news release Monday from LDCFM.

photo by: Lawrence-Douglas County Fire Medical

Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms were installed in North Lawrence homes during an “alarm blitz” on Oct. 12, 2024.

In the days leading up to the event, LDCFM and Red Cross team members distributed approximately 500 door hangers to inform residents of the opportunity for free smoke alarm installations and safety guidance. Then volunteers visited homes from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to install alarms and discuss fire safety preparedness with residents.

McKenzi Ezell with LDCFM said the agencies hoped to make the “blitz” an annual event targeting different parts of Lawrence.

“We plan on coordinating with Red Cross soon for a 2025 plan,” Ezell said.

LDCFM reminds the community that smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms are available as a part of is Home Safety Program. More information can be found on the city’s website.