Fire Chief Begins Smoke Detector Canvass

Algood Fire Chief David Judd told City Council Tuesday the department wants everyone in Algood to be protected by a smoke detector.

Judd said a grant from the Tennessee Fire Marshal’s Office allows them to provide free smoke detectors to anyone in need. He said citizens can call Algood City Hall or the fire department, and his team will install the detectors in your home. Judd also said early detection is a firefighter’s greatest ally.

“The best way to fight a fire is to stop it before it starts,” Judd said. And if we can get early detection, and get our firefighters out there or somebody can hear that detector and get out of the house, the outcomes just gonna be so much better on us.”

Judd said he hopes to reach at least 200 houses through the drive. Judd said the program is aimed at creating a safer community. Judd also said the program is ongoing with no plans to end anytime soon.

“As far as getting smoke detectors, I can get them any time of the year,” Judd said. “If I do run low, all I have to do is call the state Fire Marshall’s office. They have an office in Cookeville and they’ll run them right out to us.”

He said even those who live outside the Algood city limits will be eligible for the canvass. Judd said safety should not have boundaries when it comes to fire prevention.

“I will call either Putnam County Fire or Cookeville City Fire, wherever they’re at,” Judd said. “We all kinda work together to make sure all of our residents have as many smoke detectors as they need.”

In other matters, the Council approved a $12,000 partnership with Marks Pops for fireworks. They also approved budget increases for the Sewage and Fire Departments.