Farmington Firefighters Obtain Vital Device for Deaf Woman

Farmington, MI – A deaf woman whose Farmington condo caught fire last month is now safer because of a specialized smoke detector obtained for her by Farmington public safety officers.

The Farmington Observer reported that Heather Hatlem fortunately wasn’t home when a fire in her condo started in the afternoon of May 22.

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Following the fire, public safety officers noticed that Hatlem’s condo had no specialized smoke detectors for the deaf.

The specialized smoke detectors can cost between $150 to $180, and Hatlem said they were just too expensive.

The unit, a LifeTone HL, is connected to a regular smoke alarm and is activated when smoke is detected. The LifeTone HL is paired to a device that then shakes the bed.

The Brighton Area Fire Authority was able to purchase 200 units because of a 2013 grant.

Farmington’s Sergeant Reginald Madeline recently installed the unit for Hatlem.

Speaking of the fire, Hatlem is very thankful that the outcome wasn’t worse.

“My neighbors and I were very fortunate no one was hurt and that my downstairs neighbor’s cats were rescued. Thanks to my neighbor who called Farmington’s 911 system and got immediate action by our finest Farmington emergency first responders,” she said.

“I have great neighbors and we look after each other. By having this special alarm, I could be the first one to alert my neighbors to call 9-1-1.”

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