Warren County Firefighters Launch “10 a Day Challenge” to Install Hundreds of Free Smoke Alarms

In an effort to save lives and raise fire safety awareness, Warren County Fire and Rescue is rolling out a high-impact initiative this April—installing hundreds of smoke alarms during its “10 a Day Challenge.”

Each of the county’s nine fire stations, including Chester Gap, is participating in this campaign. The goal is ambitious but vital: each station aims to visit 10 homes, inspect 10 alarms, educate 10 people, and install 10 new alarms per day over a week-long period. That adds up to a potential 630 new alarms in just seven days.

“We provide and install the smoke alarms for free,” said Lieutenant Lisa Wilbanks from Warren County Fire and Rescue, who helps coordinate the program. “We’ll check your current alarms, and if they’re expired or not working, we’ll replace them with 10-year, battery-powered models—no battery changes needed.”

These smoke detectors don’t include carbon monoxide sensors, but Wilbank stresses that every home should have those separately, too.

The effort is about more than just installing alarms—it’s about education and prevention. House fires have changed dramatically over the past few decades. According to Wilbank, 30 years ago, families had around 15 minutes to escape a house fire. Today, thanks to modern materials and faster-burning construction, that time has dropped to just two minutes.

“People don’t realize how fast a fire spreads now,” she explained. “Synthetic materials, lightweight wood, and glues in newer construction materials mean houses can be fully engulfed in flames in minutes. A working smoke alarm can literally mean the difference between life and death.”

Nationally, seven people die each day in house fires. Studies show that having a working, up-to-date smoke alarm can cut that number in half.

While this focused challenge takes place in April, the fire department installs smoke alarms all year long. Anyone can schedule a free inspection by calling 540-636-3830.

“There’s no catch,” said Wilbanks. “We’ll come out, inspect your home, and install what’s needed—all at no cost.”

And if firefighters leave a flyer on your door, that means they stopped by and you still have time to schedule a visit.

The program is especially valuable for older adults or those with mobility issues who might struggle to reach or test their smoke alarms. “If you’re afraid of ladders or just can’t get up to check your alarm, that’s what we’re here for,” she said.

Wilbanks also offered some simple but crucial fire safety tips: never leave space heaters or candles unattended, don’t leave the kitchen while cooking, and always dispose of ashes from fireplaces or chimneys in a metal bucket, doused with water and kept away from the house. “Fires start from things we think are harmless,” she said.

Beyond alarms, having a home escape plan is critical. Wilbanks urges families to identify two exits from every room, designate a meeting place outside, and practice the plan often so it becomes second nature. “You don’t want to be thinking through your options in a panic,” she said.

The department recommends having alarms in every sleeping area, living spaces where naps might be taken, and on every level of the home. And remember, even hardwired smoke detectors expire after 10 years. Check the back for the date.

With their nine fire stations actively involved, Warren County’s fire crews aren’t just putting out fires—they’re preventing them. And this month’s “10 a Day Challenge” is just one more way they’re working to keep the community safe.