By Melanie Patterson

The North Jefferson News



Certain homes in Kimberly should be much safer in upcoming weeks.

The Kimberly Fire Department has received a $9,500 federal fire grant to be used to install smoke detectors in houses in Kimberly.

The Fire Prevention and Safety Award will be used to purchase and install the detectors in the homes of the elderly, homes with very young children and homes with disabled individuals.

Fire Chief Clark McCombs said the volunteer firefighters themselves will be installing the smoke detectors in peoples’ homes.

At a recent council meeting, Assistant Fire Chief Greg Pugliese said the fire department has already ordered 250 of the detectors.

He said the department will be able to order about 250 more with the grant funds after the first batch is installed.

The firefighters will work with people’s schedules and install the smoke detectors at various times of the day on weekdays and weekends, Pugliese said.

“It is always better to prevent fires than to have to put them out,” said Pugliese. “We will personally install these fire detectors in the homes of those in need with the hopes of increasing the safety of those most at risk. We want to make sure everyone in our community is protected.”

Congressman Spencer Bachus announced the grant in late July.

“Firefighters are on the front lines every day, protecting lives and saving property,” said Bachus in a press release. “This grant program helps ensure that fire companies have the necessary resources to quickly and effectively respond to emergency calls.”

The smoke alarms will have 10-year lithium batteries and will reportedly require little maintenance.

Kimberly residents who are elderly, have disabilities or have small children can get on the list to receive a detector. Call Kimberly Town Hall at 647-5551 or the Kimberly Fire Department at 647-5531.

Senior citizens who attend the Kimberly Senior Center may also sign a list at the center.