Bristol Virginia Fire Department Awarded Grant to Provide Free Smoke Detectors to Locals

Current Fire Safety Status

Recent data from the National Fire Protection Association reveals a concerning statistic: three out of five home fire deaths resulted from fires occurring in properties with either no smoke alarms or smoke alarms that did not function correctly. In an effort to enhance and fortify fire safety measures in Bristol, Virginia, actions are being taken to counter this alarming trend.

Community Action Towards Hazard Mitigation

The Bristol Virginia Fire Department has been selected as the recipient of a Community Risk Reduction Smoke Alarm Grant bestowed by the Virginia Department of Fire Programs. Consequently, the department will receive a significant supply of smoke detectors for distribution and installation, entirely free of charge, in local Bristol homes.

“Smoke detectors operate in consonance with our motto, which is to save lives and protect property,” states Bristol Virginia Fire Department Chief, Mike Armstrong. “These devices serve as an early warning system for residents, signaling the presence of a fire or problem requiring immediate evacuation. This allows inhabitants to contact us via 911 so that we can promptly respond.”

The Smoke Detector Program

The Bristol Virginia Fire Department announces its plans to commence the installation of these free smoke detectors from the arrival of June. This project represents a significant enhancement of the department’s existing smoke detector program offered for the residences in Bristol, which is now substantially reinforced by the department’s recent grant award.

How to Obtain a Smoke Detector

For residents interested in acquiring a free smoke detector, you can reach out to the Bristol Virginia Fire Department at (276) 645-7420. Our firefighters can then schedule an installation session at the homeowner’s convenience, at absolutely no cost. Please be aware that smoke detectors will only be available as long as our supplies last.

Moreover, the residents who lease or rent their homes can obtain a smoke detector from the owner of their rental property, as required by the Bristol, VA Code, Sec. 50-569. This states that rental property owners must furnish tenants with a certificate of assurance that all necessary smoke detectors are present and in good working order. This assurance must be provided at each tenancy’s commencement and subsequently on an annual basis.