BUFFALO GROVE, IL — The family of a 4-year-old resident is feeling a little safer today due to the actions of a member of the community. Following a tip received at last month’s public safety open house, the Buffalo Grove became one of the first fire departments in the state to install a “bed shaker” smoke alarm system.
According to the Buffalo Grove Fire Department, the specialized device is designed to alert people who are deaf or hard of hearing in the event of a fire. The alarm operates by detecting the specific frequency of a smoke detector. Once activated, it triggers a bright strobe light and a vibrating puck placed beneath the mattress, ensuring those who are hard of hearing are alerted to danger even while asleep.
The recipient of the first such alarm is deaf and unable to war hearing aids while sleeping.
“This is an incredible example of how community engagement can make a real difference,” BGFD Chief Larry Kane said. “Through our annual Public Safety Open House, one of our residents learned about this program and reached out. Our team was able to connect her with the right resources and complete the installation, all at no cost to the family.”
Kane added that the thoughtfulness of the public safety open house attendee fits with the Village of Buffalo Grove’s “Smart. With heart” slogan campaign, launched last year.
According to the BGFD, the installation was made possible through the Camp I Am Me/Illinois Fire Safety Alliances “Be Alarmed!” smoke alarm program, which provides free smoke alarms and specialized alerting devices to residents statewide.
The successful installation was completed by firefighters Peter Gripper (public educator/fire inspector), Scott Wood (acting lieutenant for Engine 26), paramedics Piotr Kujawowicz, Patrick Murray and Ryan McCarthy, along with Deputy Fire Chief Shawn Collins and Deputy Fire Marshal Bill Simmons.
“Safety should never depend on circumstance,” said Kane regarding how the program furthers the department’s mission of keeping every Buffalo Grove resident safe, regardless of ability. “This first-of-its-kind installation in Buffalo Grove demonstrates how innovation and compassion come together to protect all members of our community.”
For more information on the “Be Alarmed!” program or to learn about upcoming safety initiatives, visit ifsa.org/prevention-resources/smoke-alarm/.
