In response to a deadly blaze that claimed the life of a local resident, Newtown Fire Rescue announced plans to intensify its fire prevention program.
The department will start with a smoke detector campaign in the Newtown Grant neighborhood.
Deputy Chief Nicholas Weaver of Newtown Fire Rescue unveiled the campaign before the Newtown Township Board of Supervisors on Wednesday.
He outlined a strategy that includes door-to-door visits to residents near the scene by firefighters to discuss fire safety and smoke detectors.
The campaign comes after an early Monday morning fire in Newtown Grant, which resulted in the death of 77-year-old Loretta Catozzi. The fire has been deemed an accidental incident.
“Please, check your smoke detectors. They do save lives,” Weaver said.
Residents are urged to install smoke detectors in each bedroom and outside every sleeping area. It is also recommended that residents close bedroom doors at night, a measure proven to slow fire spread.
Recognizing the concerns of parents, Weaver said, “I understand you want to keep your doors open for your children, but please invest in a baby monitor.”
Newtown Fire Rescue offers home inspections and fire prevention advice upon request.
Publisher Tom Sofield contributed to this article.
