The Morenci Fire Association is teaming up with the local Kiwanis Club to accomplish one important goal: Getting working smoke detectors into more area homes.

Fire chief Chad Schisler emphasizes the word “working.” From his experience fighting fires, he knows a lot of homes have smoke detectors that aren’t functioning.

At a recent fire in the area, the house had at least two smoke detectors in place, but they weren’t functioning.

The smoke detector project goes beyond the usual reminders to change batteries and test detectors.

With the financial help of the Kiwanis Club, the Fire Association will give away detectors for free to those in need. Members will even install the detectors, if requested.

“Our intention is to get smoke detectors into homes that don’t have them,” Schisler said. “Homes with children present will have first priority. We really want to get people protected.”

The Kiwanians will buy smoke detectors from Johnson’s Hardware. Anyone interested in obtaining one should leave a message at the fire department by calling 458-2301.

Schisler will schedule a time to deliver a unit and talk about proper installation.

The offer is good for residents throughout the department’s coverage area in Morenci and the townships of Medina, Seneca and Chesterfield.