In a powerful new partnership aimed at saving lives, Okmulgee County Emergency Management (OCEM) has joined forces with the American Red Cross to bring free smoke detectors and professional installation to residents across Okmulgee County.
The initiative is part of the Red Cross’s national Home Fire Campaign, which works to reduce fire-related deaths and injuries by ensuring more homes are equipped with working smoke alarms. Statistics from the Red Cross underscore the urgency of the program: on average, seven people die every day in the United States due to home fires – and most of those fatalities occur in homes without functioning smoke detectors.
“Preparedness is about more than planning – it’s about giving people the tools to survive,” Jeffrey Moore, Okmulgee County Emergency Man- agement Director, said. “Every working smoke detector in a home is a lifeline; together with the Red Cross, we’re making our community safer.”
— Free Detectors & Installation
As part of the program, the Red Cross and its partners can test existing alarms and install up to three free smoke detectors per household in Oklahoma. The OCEM office is now the primary contact point for residents of Okmulgee County interested in receiving this free service.
Director Moore emphasized the importance of proactive mitigation: “We’re not just handing out detectors – we’re providing peace of mind. This partnership strengthens our county’s ability to protect life and property.”
Residents can request smoke detectors and schedule an installation by contacting OCEM directly:
• Phone: 918-759-9984
• Email: em@okmulgeecounty.gov Installations are handled by trained professionals to ensure each device is properly placed and operational. The program is especially geared toward vulnerable populations, including seniors, low-income families, and those with disabilities.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), having a working smoke alarm can cut the risk of dying in a home fire by half. Yet, millions of homes across the country still lack adequate smoke detection.
Moore said the program fits squarely into OCEM’s broader mission: “Okmulgee County Emergency Management is deeply committed to safeguarding our community through strong mitigation and preparedness efforts. This initiative is a prime example.”
The Red Cross reports that since launching the Home Fire Campaign in 2014, over 2.5 million smoke alarms have been installed nationwide and more than 1,700 lives have been saved.
OCEM is encouraging all county residents – especially those in older homes or homes without current detectors – to take advantage of the program and help spread the word. Local civic groups, churches, and community organizations are also being asked to share information about the campaign.
“Let’s make sure every family has the warning they need in a fire,” Moore said. “We don’t want to wait until it’s too late.”
Smoke detectors are available now at the Okmulgee County Emergency Management Office, and installation appointments are being scheduled on a rolling basis.
This life-saving partnership underscores a shared commitment between OCEM and the American Red Cross: to prevent tragedy before it strikes, one home at a time.
For more information or to schedule a smoke detector installation, contact the OCEM office or visit their Facebook page to stay updated on upcoming events and safety initiatives.
