If you cannot afford to purchase smoke alarms or are physically unable to install one, the Red Cross may be able to help. Arlington residents in need can sign up for free smoke alarm installation from the Red Cross of North Texas and the Arlington Fire Department.

“Our goal is to save lives,” said Keith Rhodes, CEO, American Red Cross North Texas Region. “Just in the last few years since 2014, we documented 6 lives saved. That’s why we want to make sure everyone has working smoke alarms, which can cut the risk of dying in a home fire by half.”

Residents who need assistance can visit RedCross.org/NTXHomesMadeSafer to schedule an appointment for a free smoke alarm. During the 20-minute home visits, Red Cross volunteers and Firefighters from the Arlington Fire Department will share information on the causes of home fires, how to prevent them, what to do if a fire starts and how to create an escape plan.

“Most people don’t realize they only have two minutes to escape a home fire — and that smoke alarms need to be replaced every 10 years,” Rhodes said. “Taking action with this knowledge can be the difference between survival and tragedy.”

Volunteers needed: Volunteers are needed to install 1,985 smoke alarms and share fire safety information with families. Register at North Texas - Homes Made Safer/Smoke Alarm Request to join this rewarding day of giving back. No prior experience is needed — training will be provided. You can also make a financial donation to the Red Cross to help people prepare for, respond to and recover from home fires.

This work is made possible thanks to generous financial donations from regional partners.