Winston Salem Times

The Winston-Salem Fire Department Smoke Alarm Request program is currently unavailable, leaving residents unable to request smoke alarms for their homes. According to a statement released by the department, the program is undergoing maintenance or upgrades, and residents are urged to check back for updates on when the program will be available again.

The temporary unavailability of the Smoke Alarm Request program has left many residents concerned about their safety. Smoke alarms play a crucial role in alerting individuals to potential fires and giving them the precious time needed to escape. Without functioning smoke alarms, the risk of injury or even death in a fire becomes significantly higher.

One resident, Mary Johnson, expressed her worries about the unavailability of the program, stating, "I have been meaning to request smoke alarms for my home, but now I am left with no option. It's concerning because you never know when a fire might break out, and having a smoke alarm can make a significant difference in saving lives."

The Winston-Salem Fire Department understands the importance of smoke alarms and is working diligently to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. Fire Chief David Williams assured residents that the department is aware of the problem and is actively working to bring the Smoke Alarm Request program back online. In the meantime, Chief Williams emphasized the importance of properly maintaining existing smoke alarms.

"We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause," Chief Williams said. "While we work to restore the Smoke Alarm Request program, we encourage residents to ensure their current smoke alarms are functioning correctly. Regularly testing and replacing batteries in smoke alarms can help ensure they are ready to protect you and your family in the event of a fire."

In addition to maintaining existing smoke alarms, Chief Williams also urged residents to have a fire safety plan in place. This includes identifying escape routes, practicing fire drills with family members, and teaching children how to respond in the event of a fire. These preventive measures can make a significant difference in minimizing the risk of injuries or fatalities during a fire emergency.

As the Winston-Salem Fire Department continues to address the technical issues with the Smoke Alarm Request program, residents are advised to stay updated through the department's official website and social media channels. Once the program is back up and running, residents will once again be able to request smoke alarms for their homes, ensuring their safety and peace of mind.

For now, the department is urging residents to take proactive steps in maintaining their existing smoke alarms and implementing fire safety measures. By doing so, residents can help mitigate the potential risks associated with fire emergencies until the Smoke Alarm Request program is fully operational again.