This story was originally published by ksdk.com by Mercedes Mackay December 21, 2024 in Dellwood, Missouri. It showcases the partnership between the City of Dellwood and the Metro North Fire Protection District working together for public safety.
DELLWOOD, Mo. — A public safety distribution event in north St. Louis County came with the mission of enhancing the safety and well-being of its residents. The free event in Dellwood provided essential safety equipment for every single home. City of Dellwood Mayor Reggie Jones said it was their holiday gift from the City to its residents.
"These are items that we all need to have, but sometimes people just don't give the attention to get these items," he said.
Every person that walked into City Hall Saturday morning walked out with smoke detectors, one carbon monoxide detector and one fire extinguisher, according to Jones.
"We thought this was something that was a need for the community. Anytime you can make your home safer with smoke detectors that are working. Carbon monoxide is a silent killer, and we want to make sure people are safe and also most people don't purchase fire extinguishers, so we want to make sure that people have what they needed to be safe at home," he said.
Jones said the free public safety distribution event was all thanks to funding from the American Rescue Plan Act. Not only did residents get to take home the life-saving devices, but they could also sign up to have the Metro North Fire Protection District come to their homes and install it.
"Whenever they do anything like this, I always try to make sure that I come and participate," Dellwood resident Tammy Ruffin said.
City officials told 5 On Your Side in the first 30 minutes of the giveaway, 105 people had already come to City Hall, including Ruffin.
"Well, look at it, it's smoke detectors and carbon monoxide and a fire signature. Hey, who would not come and get it," she said.
The timing of the giveaway fitting in perfectly with the spirit of giving and the reality of what this busy season can sometimes bring.
"I am very grateful. He's done some good things since he's been the mayor, he really, really has. I'm very appreciative," Ruffin said.
"This is the holidays, so it's a lot of gathering, a lot of cooking, a lot of sometimes unsafe things going on with lights and electricity and so just want to make sure they are being safe. We thought this was a great timing just to provide these items, it should be provided all year round, but the time was right now to do this," Jones said.
Jones said this reflects the city's ongoing efforts to invest in community safety and well-being.