Free Smoke Detectors, Call Now: Skokie Fire Dept.

SKOKIE, IL — Homeowners in Skokie have a chance to get new, free smoke detectors from the Skokie Fire Department. The Smoke Detector Program, instituted April 2018, is aimed at helping ensure all of Skokie is as fire-safe as possible.

The fire department already has time set aside for delivering and installing smoke detectors. They come with a 10-year lithium ion battery.

Illinois state law requires that all residences in the state have working smoke alarms on all occupied levels of the house, and one in each sleeping room. Homeowners can come pick up smoke detectors, but property owners of rented houses or apartments must provide them to their tenants.

"Smoke detectors are an important part of a home fire escape plan. When there is a fire, smoke spreads rapidly. There is a misconception that the smell of smoke will wake you if you are sleeping. Working smoke detectors give you an early warning so you can evacuate quickly," the department said in a release.

All residents are welcome to participate in the program. Firefighters will test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors as well, and add batteries where needed.

"The Skokie Fire Department wants to help your family stay safe by ensuring that homes have enough smoke alarms in the proper locations and that those alarms are functioning. The team members installing your new smoke alarm(s) will provide education on smoke alarm maintenance, fire safety, and assist with fire escape planning," the release said.

If you want to set up an appointment with the fire department to get your new detectors, call 847-982-4700 or email smokedetectorprogram@skokie.org.

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