GOOSE CREEK, S.C.–The Goose Creek Fire Department has a resolution for 2017: Smoke detectors in every home. Thanks to a recent grant, that resolution will come closer to reality.
This past summer, the GCFD applied for ServiceMaster of Charleston’s Smoke Detector Grant Program. Goose Creek was among several area fire departments awarded the grant, which came in the form of 150 smoke detectors.
The GCFD received the grant based on its commitment to fire safety and prevention-related activities, as well as its smoke detector program. That program – called “After the Fire” – was created by GCFD Captain Todd Pruitt.
According to Pruitt, “After the Fire” does just what its name implies. After each residential fire within city limits, Goose Creek firefighters will go door-to-door to surrounding homes. “Within a week, we will canvas a one-block area of that neighborhood,” Pruitt said.
The GCFD will talk to homeowners about the importance of fire safety. Pruitt created a home safety survey, which includes a wide array of safety-related questions. To those residences without the proper number of smoke detectors – or in some cases no detectors at all – firefighters will offer to install as many of the free devices as needed.
Pruitt expects the program to be well received, and said that interacting with homeowners will also benefit the department. “It puts us more in touch with the community,” he said.
ServiceMaster has requirements for the grant to be renewed, and Pruitt said that Goose Creek plans to re-apply every year. “I’m hoping this will be an annual event,” he said. “If we can save just one life, it will be worth it.”
If your Goose Creek residence needs a smoke detector, or for more information about the subject of fire safety, call the fire department at (843) 553-8350.
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