Mayor Frank A. Mullins Jr. read a proclamation during the March 3 South Charleston City Council meeting urging residents to replace smoke alarms at least every 10 years and to "don't wait — check the date" on their devices.

City and fire-department officials told the council the American Red Cross, working with the city and the CAB Community Advisory Panel, will conduct door-to-door canvassing and smoke-alarm installations on Oct. 11 from about 9 a.m. to noon in a loop that will include Central Avenue and surrounding streets. Staff said the Red Cross will supply the smoke alarms and city personnel will assist with installations and fire-safety information.

Fire officials said they may distribute door hangers in advance to alert residents to the visit and provided a contact number for residents who need smoke alarms. The council recorded that similar installation efforts have placed several hundred alarms in the city in prior years.

The proclamation text highlighted public-safety statistics read into the record, including the reduced risk of death when smoke alarms are working and the recommendation to replace alarms after 10 years. The proclamation was approved by council voice vote.

Officials did not provide details on funding for the installations during the meeting; partners named were the American Red Cross and the CAB Community Advisory Panel. The council recorded the event as an upcoming public outreach effort; no new ordinance or funding appropriation accompanied the proclamation.