The Westfield Fire Dept. received a donation of 1,200 hard-wired smoke detectors from Citizens Energy Group which it distributed to low-income residents in the community.
“We are honored that Citizens Energy Group thought of Westfield and those residents who otherwise can’t afford to have smoke detectors in their homes,” said Westfield Fire Marshal Garry Harling. “The risk of dying from a home fire is cut in half when a working smoke alarm is installed. This donation means there will be 1,200 families in Westfield protected.”
The smoke detectors were handed out during the annual Open Doors Thanksgiving Project on Nov. 22 at Westfield City Services, 2728 E. 171st St. The Westfield food pantry provides food to those in need the Saturday before Thanksgiving. During that time, Westfield firefighters dispensed the donated smoke detectors.
“While natural gas prices remain low, we know some customers will still struggle to pay their bill during this cold-weather season and may turn to alternate heating sources,” stated Craig Moore, director of Citizens Corporate Development. “By providing free smoke detectors, we hope to raise awareness for all residents. In the unfortunate case of a house fire, we want everyone to have the warning they need to get out unharmed.”
