Travelers Rest firefighters, Red Cross volunteers team up to reduce home fires

TRAVELERS REST, S.C. – As part of a national American Red Cross campaign to reduce the number of home fires, Travelers Rest firefighters and Red Cross volunteers on Saturday canvassed area neighborhoods, helping homeowners check smoke alarms and develop fire escape plans.

According to the Red Cross, seven people die each day as a result of home fires, which are estimated to cause about $7 billion of damage each year. 

Travelers Rest officials said a total of 68 new smoke alarms were installed and 21 batteries were replaced in homes throughout the city.

During the home fire preparedness campaign, the Red Cross is asking every household in America to take two simple steps that can save lives: checking or installing smoke alarms and practicing fire drills at home.

On the Web: Red Cross Home Fire Preparedness Campaign