STRONG support for a potentially life-saving initiative has been shown at Mount Burr with the recent installation of 50 smoke detectors in timber houses.
Red Cross has coordinated the installation in the wake of a tragic house fire in the town in August.
One of the grateful recipients of the smoke detectors was Aileen Bellman who has lived at Mount Burr since 1954.
According to Ms Bellman, no other current resident has lived there longer than her 65 years.
Her profile in local sporting circles is high owing to her long service as a timekeeper, gatekeeper and life member of the Mount Burr United Football Club.
Ms Bellman said she had attended an informal community gathering at the Mount Burr General Store, which was called by Red Cross to discuss the free supply and installation of the smoke detectors.
“A few days later, (regional director) David Walshaw and a Red Cross volunteer handyman came to my home,” Ms Bellman said.
“I had already had two smoke detectors in my home but they are regarded as being in the wrong place.
“It is all about the direction in which the smoke travels.
“It took about 20 minutes to install a new smoke detector in the hallway passage.
“I offered them a cup of tea and payment but they declined.
“I am definitely pleased with the Red Cross.”
Red Cross regional director David Walshaw said support from many quarters had made this installation program possible.
“We recently spent another great day in the amazing Mount Burr community fitting free smoke detectors generously supplied by Banner Mitre 10 and Quell and fitted by the Red Cross Home Handyman service,” Mr Walshaw said.
“If you have not received a free fitting yet and live in the Mount Burr community, please ring Red Cross on 8725 3622.
“Our thanks also go to George Copelin in the Mount Burr General Store for his hospitality and support of Red Cross.”
