“Sound the Alarm is a meaningful way to get involved in the community and directly impact lives,” said Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Northwest Illinois, Leslie Luther. as part of a national Red Cross initiative to install 50,000 free smoke alarms with partners in more than 50 communities across the country throughout the year, according to a media release from the American Red Cross. The American Red Cross of Illinois is leading the ‘Sound the Alarm’ smoke alarm installation and home fire safety event on Saturday, March 25 from 9 a.m. (KWQC) - If you’ve been needing a new smoke alarm, the American Red Cross in Morrison will be hosting a free smoke alarm installations event, Saturday, and the Red Cross is encouraging the community to sign up. Include at least two ways to get out of every room and select a meeting spot at a safe distance away from your home, such as your neighbor’s home or landmark like a specific tree in your front yard, where everyone can meet.MORRISON, Ill.Make sure everyone in your household can get out in less than two minutes - the amount of time you may have to escape a burning home before it’s too late. Practice your two-minute home fire escape plan.

Follow your alarm’s manufacturer instructions.

Components such as sensors can become less sensitive over time. Replace smoke alarms that are 10 years or older.

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including inside and outside bedrooms and sleeping areas.

Visit /fire for more information, including an escape plan to create and practice with your family, or download the free Red Cross Emergency app by searching “American Red Cross” in app stores.

When turning your clocks back this weekend, test your smoke alarms and replace the batteries if needed.

Some tips for the Red Cross on smoke alarm safety include:

Download red cross fire alarm