During National Fire Prevention Month, Henrico Fire officials promote importance of smoke alarms

October is National Fire Prevention Month, and the Henrico County Division of Fire is emphasizing the importance of smoke alarms. The division is displaying banners outside each of its 22 firehouses featuring trivia questions promoting the life-saving message "Smoke Alarms Save Lives."

The initiative aims to encourage residents to prioritize smoke alarm safety in their homes, said Henrico Deputy Chief of Risk Reduction Doug Clevert.

"Working smoke alarms can make a difference when there’s a fire,” Clevert said, highlighting the need for proper installation and maintenance.

Henrico Fire officials recommend installing smoke alarms on every floor of a home, including inside each sleeping area. Monthly testing is crucial to ensure batteries are functioning correctly, and replacement is necessary every 10 years, officials said.

For those unable to afford smoke alarms or maintain them, Henrico Fire offers its Smoke Alarm Assistance Program. This program, funded by the Henrico Firefighter Foundation, provides qualifying residences with at least one smoke alarm per level. In 2023 alone, Henrico Fire installed smoke alarms in 175 homes through this program.

"Smoke alarms provide a valuable layer of protection,” Clevert said. "But they only do their job when they’re functioning properly. Proper upkeep and placement are imperative.”

Residents can request assistance from the Smoke Alarm Assistance Program by completing a form at henrico.gov/services/smoke-alarm-assistance.