Today, Mayor Donna Deegan and Fire Chief Percy Golden II returned to the neighborhood, not for an emergency call, but to continue JFRD’s mission of prevention. Organized by the Prevention Division, they walked door to door with firefighters to speak with residents about fire safety and the importance of working smoke alarms.
“Saving lives doesn’t just happen at the scene of a fire,” Chief Golden said. “Prevention saves lives before a fire even starts. Research shows that the death rate in reported home fires is 60 percent lower when working smoke alarms are present.”
JFRD’s Fire Prevention Division is dedicated to ensuring every family in Jacksonville has access to these life-saving devices. In Fiscal Year 2024–2025, personnel installed more than 1,100 smoke alarms and replaced over 300 batteries in homes across the city.
Mayor Deegan emphasized the city’s commitment to making the process simple and accessible. Homeowners can request a free smoke alarm installation or replacement batteries by calling 904-630-CITY. Residents will need to provide their name, address, and contact information so the Fire Prevention Division can schedule a visit.
“Each alarm represents a safer family and more time to escape if the unthinkable happens,” Mayor Deegan said. “This is about meeting neighbors where they are and helping make every home in Jacksonville safer.”
For more information on JFRD’s fire prevention programs and services, visit myJFRD.com or call 904-630-CITY.
