Working smoke detectors save Hamlin family

Smoke detectors awoke a family living on Hidden Creek Lane, Hamlin, at 3 a.m. February 15 and alerted them to a fire in their family room. This early warning allowed both the occupants of the home to escape without injury, according to Hamlin Fire Department personnel. The fire was knocked down in under two minutes and the damage contained to a small area of the family room around the wood stove. Twenty-two members of the Hamlin Fire Department responded. A pumper from Morton was on the scene and another pumper from Walker filled in at the Hamlin firehouse. Hamlin Ambulance was also on scene to provide EMS service. The American Red Cross is assisting the family.

Hamlin Fire Chief Daryl Prince stated, "People need to remember to maintain their smoke detectors because they can save your life, as well as maintaining your wood stoves. They are a great way to supplement your heating but require extra attention."

The Hamlin Fire Department has free smoke and carbon monoxide detectors that it will install in any home in the Hamlin Fire District. Call the firehouse, 964-2330, and leave a message to arrange installation. People outside the Hamlin Fire District can call their local fire department for a similar service.

February 26, 2006