Smoke Detector Batteries Died Before Enfield Fatal Fire

They're a small device that delivers an ear-piercing screech and has helped save countless lives.

Following the horrific South River Street fire in Enfield last week, the Thompsonville Fire Department says neighbors are rushing to have smoke detectors installed.

"Absolutely got to have one on every floor. Every floor, every bedroom. Can't stress that enough," said Thompsonville Fire Chief Frank Alaimo.

Because of a federal grant program that's been in effect for a few years, by calling the fire department a firefighter will bring and install the devices for Enfield residents free of charge.

Since the deadly fire officials say dozens have been installed.

"I wouldn't even go a day without having batteries in your smoke detector. It's so lifesaving," said Mary Lapane.

Lapane was inside the two-apartment home when flames broke out Wednesday morning. She says the batteries for her smoke detector died weeks prior to the fire and if she hadn't been awake she and her sons probably wouldn't be here today.

"I happened to smell the fire and at that moment we knew we had to get out. We just yelled to get out," said Lapane.

The devastating fire has left behind a shell of a building. Candles stand with the names of the victims: 36-year-old Cathy Armes, 59-year-old Orise Handfield, 20-year-old Joshua Johnson, and 19-year-old David Cygan. Police formally identified Johnson and Cygan on Tuesday.

Those who survived the tragedy say they're grateful to be alive and it's something they'll never be able to forget.
"It's horrible. It feels like it was just yesterday. The thought just doesn't go away," said Lapane.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

As far as maintaining your smoke detector, authorities say change the batteries when you change your clocks.

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