The Bristol Virginia Fire Department has awarded a grant to provide free smoke detectors to local residents

Three out of five home fire deaths were caused by fires in properties without smoke alarms or smoke alarms that didn’t work — that’s according to the National Fire Protection Association.

That’s why the Bristol Virginia Fire Department is working to make sure residents are protected.

The department was awarded a community risk reduction smoke alarm grant through the Virginia Department of Fire Programs.

As a result, the department will receive a free supply of smoke detectors that can be installed in homes in Bristol, Virginia.

“Some detectors work to our motto, and that is to save lives and protect property,” said Chief Mike Armstrong of the Bristol Virginia Fire Department. “Some detectors serve as an early warning device to alert residents that there is a fire or a problem, to get out, call 911 and let us know so we can respond.”

The department hopes to begin installing the free smoke detectors in early June.

The following is a full press release from the City of Bristol, Virginia:

The Bristol, VA Fire Department was awarded a Community Hazard Reduction Smoke Alarm Grant through the Virginia Department of Fire Programs. The purpose of the grant program is to enhance the fire and life safety of homes in the Commonwealth, specifically for homeowners in the City of Bristol, VA.

The Fire Department will receive a free supply of smoke detectors to be installed in homes in Bristol, VA. The grant will greatly enhance the current smoke detector program that is already provided to Bristol, VA residences by the Fire Department. The department hopes to begin installing the free smoke detectors in early June.

To receive a free smoke detector, you can contact the Bristol, VA Fire Department at (276) 645-7420. Firefighters will arrange a time that is convenient with the homeowner and will come out and install the smoke detector at no cost. Smoke detectors are available while stocks last.

Residents who rent or lease their home may receive a free smoke detector from the owner of the rental property. Bristol, VA Code, Sec. 50-569 requires the owner of any unit that is rented or leased, at the beginning of each tenancy and at least annually thereafter, to provide the tenant with a certificate that all required smoke detectors are present, have been inspected and are in good working order.