SAFETY Firefighters try to get detectors in every home

The program continues as long as there are detectors to give away.
By SHERRI L. SHAULIS
VINDICATOR TRUMBULL STAFF
NILES -- Firefighters are continuing their drive to get at least one smoke detector into every home in the city.
Department employees received a $1,000 donation earlier this year from Sam's Club and decided to use the money to buy smoke detectors to give to homeowners who could not otherwise afford the units.
"We still have quite a few left," Fire Lt. Randy Freel said.
The department initially bought 50 smoke detectors to distribute to homeowners while supplies last. The department is also accepting donations to purchase more smoke detectors.
The Niles Fire Department and Firefighters Local 320 is sponsoring the smoke detector program.
How this works
The program is open to any homeowner in the city, Freel said. Those who live in rental units do not qualify, but they can contact their landlords and request that a smoke detector be installed.
City law states landlords are responsible for furnishing smoke detectors, but tenants are responsible for maintaining them.
Residents are not required to provide proof of income, but the department asks that those who can afford their own units -- which cost about $8 -- purchase their own.
Checks for donations to the department should be made payable to Niles Firefighters Local 320 and sent to Niles Smoke Detector Program, 15 E. State St., Niles 44446.
For information on the program, or to request a smoke detector, call the fire department at (330) 544-9022.
slshaulis@vindy.com