Minden Fire Chief Brian Williams used Saturday’s Prayer in the Park gathering at Academy Park to remind residents about the importance of working smoke detectors and other basic fire safety practices.
The Minden Fire Department brought a fire engine to the park and provided information about its free smoke detector program. Residents can receive 10-year lithium battery smoke detectors through a partnership with the Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office’s Operation Save-a-Life Campaign.
“As everyone knows, Minden suffered a tragic loss — the death of a local child in April of this year. Your Minden Fire Department is trying to make sure that this does not ever happen again in our city. We want to make sure that we have working smoke alarms in every home in the city,” Williams said.
The smoke detectors are available at no charge to Minden residents, and the fire department will install them for residents who need assistance.
“The smoke detector program is free of charge, and all they have to do is stop by the Minden Fire station at 1213 Sheppard Street and we will be sure to get them a smoke alarm or install it for them,” Williams said.
Williams said Ace Hardware and other organizations also have donated smoke detectors, many of which have already been installed in Minden homes this year.
Williams encouraged residents to visit the fire station to learn more about fire safety.
“Anytime you have any questions, feel free to call the fire station. Stop by the fire station. The firemen are always there. If you have young kids, drop by. We’d be glad to show them the fire truck and all the equipment the firemen use. We’re here to answer any questions you may have about fire safety,” he said.
The department works with other agencies to provide fire safety education throughout the community and responds to public service calls to assist residents.
“We do a lot of public service calls. Anything we can do to help y’all, we’re here for that,” Williams said.
Residents interested in receiving a free smoke detector or having one installed can visit the Minden Fire Department at 1213 Sheppard Street or call (318) 371-4232.