Brookfield, IL – February 27, 2014 – Cantata Adult Life Services Handymen and Handywomen are helping local seniors prevent fires by offering complimentary smoke detector battery checks and installing free smoke detectors in older adults’ homes without them.

Cantata collaborated with Cattaneo Electric and HD Supply to secure 65 smoke detectors donated by the two companies. These will be provided on a first-come, first-serve basis to those who call Cantata. Smoke detector battery checks will be provided at no charge through March 31, 2014 to seniors in the local area. If a new battery is needed, there will be a small fee.

According to the United States Fire Administration, about 1,200 senior citizens die in fires each year, and over 3,000 are injured. Seniors are particularly vulnerable because many live alone and can’t respond quickly. Winter and early spring present greater risk because people may use unsafe heat sources.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for our local seniors to improve the safety of their homes with the help of Cantata Adult Life Services,” says Patrick Lenzi, Fire Chief for the Brookfield Fire Department.

Smoke detectors are required by law in the state of Illinois. According to Illinois law, each “sleeping room” must have a smoke detector, and there must also be a smoke detector mounted on the ceiling outside each sleeping room. Detectors should be mounted on the ceiling at least six inches from any wall, or on the wall between four and six inches from the ceiling. Detectors are placed close to the ceiling because smoke rises. These devices can be powered by batteries or hardwired into a home’s electrical system. Detectors should be checked regularly and batteries should be replaced at least once per year – unless it’s a long term lithium battery, which can last for several years. It is recommended to replace smoke detectors every 10 years.

If you would like to have your current smoke detectors checked or know a senior who could benefit from this service, call Cantata Adult Life Services at 708-485-1155 and ask a Customer Advocate for more information. Cantata Adult Life Services is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to developing new and better ways to ensure seniors love where and how they live. Visit us online at www.cantata.org.