In light of the tragic Brooklyn Fire that killed 7, Rockland offers free smoke detectors for needy.

Save your life and protect your family by installing smoke detectors in your apartment or house.
While that message is given year-round, the Rockland Health Department and fire officials are urgently spreading the word after seven children were killed during a Brooklyn blaze on Saturday that officials suspect was set off by a hot plate.

If Rockland residents can't afford smoke detectors and meet income guidelines, the Health Department will donate and install the devices through its Healthy Neighborhood Program. The program looks to improve the quality of life for families by reducing exposure to health and safety risks at home.

"Almost two-thirds of home fire deaths result from fire in homes without working smoke alarms," 

Rockland Health Commissioner Dr. Patricia Schnabel Ruppert said. "Having a working smoke alarm greatly increases your chances of surviving a deadly home fire."

For more information on the smoke detector program, call 845-364-3292 or 845-364-3290.

■ Replace smoke alarms that are more than 10 years old.
■ Change batteries twice a year, usually when you change clocks.
■ Have smoke alarms on all floors of the home.
■ Never smoke in bed or leave food cooking unattended.
■ Have your chimney inspected.
■ Make sure your furnace and appliances are inspected.
■ Develop a home fire escape plan.
■ Keep exits clear of debris.

Source: LoHud