The Independence Fire & EMS Department and Independence Police partner with the American Red Cross to install smoke detectors in dozens of local homes.

Last weekend, firefighters and police officers went door-to-door on the east side of Independence offering to install smoke alarms in homes. Together, the group installed 38 detectors in the area of the City that was the site of a recent fire that claimed five lives.

During the past week, first responders installed an additional 50 smoke detectors at the request of residents.

Independence Fire and I-P-D thanked the local individuals and businesses who donated the smoke detectors to help ensure everyone has the potentially life-saving protection in their home.

Anyone in need of a smoke detector, can contact the Independence Fire Department at 620-332-2537.

Photo: An Independence fireifighter installs a smoke detector in a home. Courtesy Independence Fire/EMS