By Shannon FitzGerald

On Saturday, November 16, American Red Cross volunteers from all over the state teamed up with the Boston Fire Department to conduct a large-scale smoke alarm installation and fire safety event known as “Sound the Alarm.”

The event was a tremendous success, with volunteers and fire cadets installing a total of 296 alarms in 86 homes, ensuring 229 residents are now safer in the event of a fire.

This event is part of the Red Cross’s ongoing mission to improve fire safety across Massachusetts communities and ensure each home is equipped to prevent fire-related tragedies.

Fires spread quickly, giving residents just minutes to escape. Working smoke alarms can reduce the risk of death in a home fire by half. By installing alarms in homes across East Boston, these residents have been given those critical seconds that could mean the difference between life and death in the event of a fire.

This event has empowered residents with the knowledge they need to stay safe. The Red Cross offers this service at no cost to people all over Massachusetts in part of an ongoing effort to make our communities more resilient.

With the support of volunteers, partners like the Boston Fire Department, and residents who take action, we can work together to reduce the risks associated with home fires.

Join the Red Cross at future “Sound the Alarm” events and help make your community safer.