Contact: Sunny Mindel/Matthew Higgins (212) 788-2958
David Billig - Fire Department 718-999-2056
Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani joined First Deputy Fire Commissioner William Feehan at the firehouse of Engine Co. 9 and Ladder Co. 6 in Manhattan to distribute smoke detector batteries. The Fire Department will be distributing thousands of free batteries to the public for use in smoke detectors, as part of an annual giveaway coinciding with the switch to Daylight Savings Time on April 4th.
"When you change your clocks to Daylight Savings Time this Sunday, you should also replace the batteries in your smoke detectors," the Mayor said. "Fire prevention experts all agree that smoke detectors do save lives. However, they must be in good working condition. An operable smoke detector is one of the simplest and least expensive ways to safeguard you, your family and your property from the devastation caused by fires."
Over the next several days, 25,000 batteries are being distributed at subway and railroad stations, shopping malls, and many other locations throughout the five boroughs. Each nine-volt battery comes in an envelope featuring important fire safety information. Members of the New York City Fire Department's Fire Safety and Education Unit will be on hand to answer any questions regarding fire safety or the proper placement of smoke detectors in your home.
Smoke detectors can be purchased for as little as $5.00 and they can easily be installed with only small hand tools. According to the Fire Department, for maximum protection, at least one smoke detector should be placed on each floor of your home, and it is highly recommended that additional detectors be placed in the kitchen and in sleeping areas.
To obtain a list of locations nearest you where the Fire Safety and Education Unit will be distributing free batteries and important safety information, call 718-999-2343.