Smoke alarms are a critical first line of defense against fire-related injuries and fatalities. The death rate in homes without working smoke alarms is twice as high as in those with functioning alarms. Tragically, during the Montford Drive fire, the Charlotte Fire Investigation Task Force discovered that while smoke alarms were present on the lower level of the home, none were identified on the main floor where a fatality occurred.
Charlotte Fire urges residents to check their smoke alarms after a fatal fire on Montford Drive. Early detection can mean the difference between life and death.
“This heartbreaking incident highlights the importance of having working smoke alarms on every level of your home,” said Charlotte Fire Chief Reginald Johnson. “A smoke alarm can give you the precious seconds needed to escape a fire. Every home in our community should have this vital protection.”
To support community safety, Charlotte Fire partners with local organizations to provide and install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms for residents upon request. Residents can easily request a smoke alarm by completing this Smoke Alarm/Carbon Monoxide Alarm Request Form on the Charlotte Fire website. Requests are reviewed by Charlotte Fire educators, who determine eligibility based on factors such as housing type and existing smoke alarm systems.
Each year, fires claim more lives in the U.S. than all natural disasters combined. A working smoke alarm increases your chance of surviving a house fire by more than 50%. Additionally, it is estimated that 890 lives could be saved annually if all homes had working smoke alarms. Smoke alarms provide an early warning, giving families time to escape before a fire spreads.
Charlotte Fire provides and installs smoke alarms for qualifying residents. Don’t wait—make sure your home is protected.
Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is the leading cause of unintentional poisoning deaths in the U.S., killing over 3,800 people annually. CO is an odorless, colorless gas produced by malfunctioning appliances, furnaces, and vehicles. Charlotte Fire advises placing UL-approved carbon monoxide alarms on each level of your home and checking batteries monthly.
Charlotte Fire also encourages residents to reduce fire risks by never leaving cooking unattended, keeping flammable objects away from space heaters and fireplaces, avoiding overloaded electrical outlets, and inspecting cords for damage. Using deep ashtrays and avoiding smoking in bed are additional precautions that can make a significant difference.
“Prevention and preparation are key to saving lives,” added Chief Johnson. “We are committed to helping our community by making smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors accessible to everyone. Together, we can prevent tragedies and protect our loved ones.”
Charlotte Fire crews remind residents of the importance of working smoke alarms. Request a free smoke alarm today to help keep your home safe.
For more information about Charlotte Fire’s smoke alarm program or fire safety tips, visit the Charlotte Fire website. Request your smoke alarm today to help protect your home and family.
Charlotte Fire Smoke Alarm Request Form