“Working smoke alarms save lives!” On Thursday, May 12, Arizona Burn Foundation hosted an appreciation lunch for area Fire Service personnel and the American Red Cross Greater Phoenix chapter. At the lunch, a coalition was formed to work together to install smoke alarms in communities in central Arizona. Representatives from  Phoenix, Mesa, Tempe, Maricopa, Avondale, Goodyear, Sun City, Glendale, Rural Metro, Surprise, and Buckeye Fire Departments were all present to collaborate on how we can best get the message out that “working smoke alarms save lives!”

Plans were made coordinate three major events this October; one in Phoenix, one in the East valley, and one in the West valley. The goal is to reach at least 1500 homes at each event. Arizona Burn Foundation and the American Red Cross committed to supply smoke alarms, tools, educational materials, food, water, and volunteers. The Fire Departments committed to identifying the neighborhoods, mapping, and recruiting volunteers as well. Together we will work to let the media know of our efforts and to help get the message out that “working smoke alarms save lives!”

In the East valley, Chandler, Mesa, Tempe, Rural Metro, and Maricopa have committed to Saturday, October 8th. Phoenix will plan for 1500 homes on Saturday, October 15th. The West valley cities are checking calendars for either October 1st or 22nd.

This exciting new coalition is sure to make a difference in our communities as we partner together for greater impact than ever before. To volunteer at one of the events click here.