By Ali Moreland
Holmes County residents in need of a smoke detector now have an opportunity to receive one at no cost through a new community safety initiative launched by Holmes County Fire Rescue.
The department has partnered with Lowe’s to provide free smoke detectors to county residents who need one in their homes. The program is designed to improve fire safety and help protect families by ensuring homes are equipped with working smoke alarms.
Residents interested in participating can contact Holmes County Fire Rescue at 850-547-4421 to register. Supplies are limited and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, with a limit of one smoke detector per household.
As part of the program, Fire Chief Jeff McVay will personally visit participating homes to install the smoke detector free of charge. The installation service is intended to ensure each device is placed correctly and functioning properly.
In a social media post announcing the program, Holmes County Fire Rescue emphasizes that smoke detectors save lives by providing an early warning in the event of a fire. Early warning from a working smoke alarm can provide valuable time for occupants to escape during an emergency.
Holmes County Sheriff John Tate also expressed appreciation for the community partnership that made the program possible. Tate extended special thanks to Marshall Roberts, manager of Lowe’s in DeFuniak Springs, for supporting the initiative and helping provide the smoke detectors.
Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the program while supplies remain available.
AMBER PATINO 
Staff Report 