JAMESTOWN, N.Y. — Paul Cochrane makes a habit of checking the smoke detectors in the home he and his wife have lived in for 50 years.

What You Need To Know

  • New York state continues to lead the nation in the number of housefires

  • The American Red Cross is sounding the alarm by handing out and installing free smoke detectors

  • Volunteers are also help families map out escape routes in case of an emergency

The couple enjoys spending time with family, including twin granddaughters and a great-granddaughter.

"It has to be a safe place for them to be," said Cochrane. "That's the most important thing in life, is to keep the children safe."

While there are eight working detectors inside, Cochrane felt it was time for an upgrade.

"We figured they were kind of old, and if we could get some newer ones it would be better," said Cochrane.

They signed up for the American Red Cross, Sound the Alarm awareness campaign that offers free detectors and installation for homeowners across the state.

Last year, Jamestown in Chautauqua County was atop the list for having the greatest risk for house fires, complete with injury or death, prompting Red Cross leaders and volunteers to gather in Jamestown Saturday to help lower the risk.

"The need is great. And unfortunately there are a lot of fires that we go to where there are no working smoke alarms inside the residence," said Matthew Coon, deputy fire chief, Jamestown Fire Department.

Teams got a crash course, before grabbing their supplies, and heading out to take a few boxes and a step ladder.

Leaders say they want homeowners to have the tools and resources, should disaster strike.

"We know that it could be a barrier financially for some individuals not to purchase smoke alarms or there may be some individuals that don't have the ability to get up on a ladder or step-stool and change them physically, so we have this program in place to hopefully make homes safer," said Nick Bond, CEO, Western New York Region, American Red Cross.

Like the Cochranes, where a crew stopped by to install a couple of new detectors in suggested common areas and replace a handful of others both upstairs and down.

The Red Cross helped the couple map out an emergency escape plan and outdoor meeting spot

"We were out here with the Red Cross a week ago because someone perished in their fire. So, I just find it's a good way to give back to the community. To help make it a little bit safer for everybody," said John Bieger, volunteer installer, American Red Cross.

Like for Cochrane and his family.

"[I’m] very thankful,” said Cochrane. “You never know when a fire will break out, so if you've got the proper equipment here then you're squared away.”

Other counties on the map at high risk for house fires and injury or death include Allegany, Chenango, Franklin and Saint Lawrence.