Georgetown, Del., Jan. 25, 2007: It’s a fact every winter in Delaware – when the temperature goes down, the threat of houses fires goes up.

With some of the coldest air this season moving in this week, Sussex County officials want to remind the public of a long-running program to offer free smoke detectors for residents who do not have them in their homes and who are unable to obtain the detectors themselves.

Sussex County government has approximately 200 battery operated smoke detectors, donated by Lowe’s Home Improvement, available for distribution this season, said Frank Shade, director of purchasing.

“The intent of this program is to get working smoke detectors in homes that don’t have any, since it’s a proven fact that these devices save lives,” said Mr. Shade, who also serves as a volunteer firefighter. “While no one will be turned away as long as our supplies last, we ask that those who can afford their own detectors to purchase them through a store like Lowe’s. A $5 to $10 detector could turn out to be an invaluable investment.”

Anyone who needs a free detector can pick up a device at the County Administrative Office building lobby, 2 The Circle in Georgetown, or call (302) 855-7700. Anyone with questions can contact Mr. Shade at (302) 854-5382.