CAFMA and Volunteers Install Free Smoke Alarms in More Than 50 Prescott Homes

Photo: The volunteers for the CAFMA Community Smoke Alarm Walk

On Saturday, September 19, 2026, volunteers committed their morning to installing smoke alarms as part of the CAFMA Community Smoke Alarm Walk, a collaboration between the Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority (CAFMA), the Arizona Burn Foundation, and the American Red Cross of Arizona.

Volunteers, including community members, CAFMA families, and the crew of CAFMA Engine 51, tested existing smoke alarms and installed 46 new standard smoke alarms in 53 homes. Along the way, they also educated residents about smoke alarm safety and the importance of creating and practicing a fire escape plan.

Smoke alarm initiatives strive to enhance safety for vulnerable residents in high-risk neighborhoods by providing free smoke alarms and installation services. CAFMA’s Fire Prevention team identifies target neighborhoods where smoke alarm walks will have the greatest impact, ensuring those most in need receive assistance.

“Every smoke alarm walk reveals homes without working alarms, putting families at risk,” said CAFMA Fire Marshal Darrell Tirpak. “Smoke alarms save lives, but only if they work. Test yours today, set a monthly reminder, and make sure you have a smoke alarm installed outside every sleeping area for maximum protection.”

CAFMA extends their sincere thanks to the Arizona Burn Foundation, the American Red Cross of Arizona, and the dedicated volunteers who generously gave their time to support the Prescott community. A special thank you to B&W Fire Security Systems, LLC, for providing breakfast and lunch, making sure everyone stayed fueled throughout the event.

SMOKE ALARM SAFETY:

• Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each sleeping area.
• Install alarms on every level of the home.
• Avoid installing alarms in the kitchen and bathrooms (to reduce false alarms).
• Test smoke alarms once a month.
• Dust smoke alarms regularly.
• Replace the entire smoke alarm every 8 – 10 years.
• Know two ways out of every room in your home.
• Create a fire escape plan and practice it at least twice a year.
• If the alarm sounds, immediately go outside and stay outside.

Alarms with strobe lights and bed shakers are available for those who are hard-of hearing or deaf. Learn more here: https://azburn.org/advocacy-and-education/hard-of-hearing-smoke-alarm-program/.  Visit www.cazfire.gov/ for additional fire safety information.

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ABOUT THE CENTRAL ARIZONA FIRE AND MEDICAL AUTHORITY
The Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority (CAFMA) provides emergency services, all-hazards response, and community safety education across 369 square miles of Yavapai County, Arizona, including the towns of Prescott Valley, Chino Valley, Dewey-Humboldt, parts of Paulden, and surrounding areas of Prescott. Headquartered in Prescott Valley, CAFMA is dedicated to protecting life and property through prevention and response while fostering strong partnerships with the communities it serves. Learn more at cazfire.gov.