Marina
The Emporia Fire Department (EFD) has launched a life-saving program offering free smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) combo alarms with professional installation for eligible Kansas homeowners.
This effort, in collaboration with Get Alarmed Kansas, aims to reduce fire-related deaths by ensuring every home has a working alarm and residents know how to respond during emergencies.
Why This Program Is Critical
The initiative responds to alarming statistics showing that 82% of Kansas homes involved in fires had no working smoke alarms.
National data shows that working smoke alarms can reduce home fire death rates by 40% to 50%, while nearly 70% of fatal home fires happen where alarms are not working.
Providing residents with functional alarms and educating them on emergency planning can dramatically improve survival rates.
What the Program Offers
The program provides 10-year sealed smoke/CO combo alarms installed by trained fire department personnel. This ensures proper placement, functionality, and maintenance guidance for homeowners.
Installers will also test the device, explain basic maintenance, and help families develop a fire escape plan.
This initiative not only increases safety but also fosters awareness about the importance of having functioning alarms in every home.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, participants must be Kansas homeowners who meet one of the following:
- Have no smoke alarm present in their home
- Have a non-working alarm
- Have an alarm with a manufacture date of 10 years or older
Renters and landlords are not eligible, as Kansas law requires landlords to provide working smoke alarms to tenants. An exception applies to residents who are deaf or hard of hearing, who may qualify for specialized alarms.
How to Apply
Eligible homeowners can request an alarm and installation by completing the Local Get Alarmed Kansas Application online.
Steps to apply:
- Submit the application form on the official city website.
- Receive an email confirmation acknowledging your request.
- The Emporia Fire Department will contact you to schedule your installation appointment.
- A trained installer will deliver, install, and test the alarm, and complete an installation form with you.
For more information, homeowners can contact Emporia Fire Marshal Stephen Beemer at 620-343-4239 or email sbeemer@emporiaks.gov.
Key Program Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Get Alarmed Kansas (Emporia Fire Department) |
| What’s Provided | Free smoke/CO combo alarms with professional installation |
| Eligibility | Kansas homeowners with no, non-working, or 10+ year old alarms |
| Not Eligible | Renters and landlords |
| Purpose | Reduce home fire deaths by ensuring working alarms |
| Bonus | Includes fire safety education and escape plan guidance |
| Contact | Stephen Beemer, 620-343-4239 |
| Application | Local Get Alarmed Kansas Application (online form) |
What to Expect During Installation
- Site Assessment: Installers will evaluate where alarms should be placed, usually near bedrooms and hallways.
- Installation & Testing: The alarm will be mounted securely, activated, and tested on-site to ensure it’s functioning properly.
- Safety Education: Homeowners will receive guidance on alarm maintenance, monthly testing, and creating a two-exit fire escape plan for their household.
Community Impact
This program highlights Emporia’s growing commitment to fire prevention and safety education. By delivering not only alarms but also critical knowledge, the Emporia Fire Department is helping create a safer, more prepared community.
This proactive approach empowers families to protect themselves from devastating home fires.
The Emporia Fire Department’s free smoke alarm program is a powerful step toward saving lives and preventing tragedies. By offering free alarms with professional installation and educating families on fire safety, the initiative is closing a critical safety gap.
Eligible homeowners are encouraged to apply now and make their homes safer for their loved ones.