Council hears update after fatal house fire; city highlights free smoke‑alarm installs and Narcan leave‑behind bags

Council members heard a public safety update following a recent house fire that claimed three lives and were briefed on two prevention and response efforts: a free smoke‑alarm installation program and a Narcan leave‑behind kit for families.

Fire Chief Street told the council that investigators, including an out‑of‑jurisdiction state fire marshal, were still completing reports and that some details remain under review. He urged residents — whether owners or renters — to check their smoke alarms and said the fire department will install detectors at no charge and will help residents schedule appointments. Chief Street said information about the alarm program is available on the city website and social media.

Police Chief Barden thanked volunteers and first responders for their work at the scene and said he will forward letters of recognition for officers involved in the response. Chief Barden described a pilot ‘leave‑behind’ bag developed with the Lake County Health Department that contains single‑use Narcan (naloxone), CPR one‑way valve masks and bilingual materials. He said the kits will be available at the police department and officers will carry some kits when they respond, noting the program mirrors successful work in neighboring counties.

Council members praised interagency coordination at the fire debrief and highlighted the importance of mental‑health supports for first responders. Commissioner Holmes noted a voter who had a heart attack at a polling site and thanked responders for their quick action.

Next steps: the fire department will share updated investigation findings when available; the police department will begin distribution of Narcan leave‑behind kits and continue outreach with Lake County partners.