If a fire breaks out in your home, you may have just two minutes to escape. In an effort to reduce the number of home fire-related injuries and fatalities, the American Red Cross has launched the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign, helping local families take important steps to prevent fires and be better prepared should one occur.

On Saturday April 1, 2017, volunteers from the Red Cross, Whiting Fire Company Sta. 33, Manchester Township Community Emergency Response Team (C.E.R.T.) and Pine Ridge at Crestwood Manufactured Home Community went door-to-door in the Pine Ridge Mobile Home Community offering free fire safety visits with smoke alarm installations in homes that needed them.

By the end of the day in Pine Ridge, the volunteers had installed and tested 346 smoke alarms. The volunteers were warmly greeted by the residents who were grateful for the safety equipment that may one day save a life.

“The many volunteers throughout Manchester Township, whether from our Fire Companies, First Aid Squads, C.E.R.T., or numerous other organizations, do a tremendous amount of work to assist their neighbors,” said Chief of Police Lisa Parker. “This smoke alarm installation initiative is just another example of the dedication these volunteers show in caring for our community and residents. Thank you to everyone who helped with this worthy cause.”

The Red Cross wants to help you, your family and our community stay safe. Remember to test your smoke alarms monthly and practice your fire escape plan. For additional fire safety information, including free tools and resources, visit redcross.org/NJsmokealarms.