After KC area house fire deaths, here’s how to make sure your smoke detectors work
Smoke detectors were not functioning during a firework-related house fire on July Fourth near Buckner that killed two people and critically injured one, officials say, highlighting a danger officials say is preventable.
Several fire departments were called to the house at North Lake City Valley and East Bundschu roads, around 5 a.m., Eric Michel, a spokesperson for the Independence Fire Department, previously told The Star.
A 13-year-old girl who had recently beaten cancer was found dead and a man later died at an area hospital Sunday. Though the girl’s cause of death has not been released, evidence shows she suffered lung inhalation and burns. A woman is still in critical condition.
Though smoke detectors don’t extinguish fires, Independence Fire Chief Jimmy Walker said they do alert people in the early stage of the fire, saving lives.
The night of the fire, firework debris ignited the area of the home’s exterior rear porch, said Independence Fire Chief Jimmy Walker. The fire smoked for “quite some time” before extending to the inside area of the porch and, eventually, the home.
“(The) most important thing we need to tell everybody is make sure you have a working smoke detector right now,” he said.
In addition to working smoke detectors, Walker said it’s important for people to practice basic fire safety, exit drills from their homes and to create a meeting point.
Here’s where to get your fire detector for free, and how to make sure it works.
Where can I get a free smoke detector?
The Missouri American Red Cross will test existing smoke alarms and install up to three to those who need them. Installation appointments can be made by calling 1 (800) RED-CROSS, or filling out the online request form.
Residents in Kansas City can also obtain a smoke detector by calling 816-513-4648.
Johnson County Emergency Management offers free smoke alarms to county residents.
North Kansas City Fire Department offers free smoke alarms to residents who live within the city limits.
The Central Platte County Fire Department installs free smoke detectors. Requests can be submitted here.
Kansas City, Kansas, residents can get smoke detectors by calling 913-573-5971.
How can I test my smoke alarm?
In addition to working fire alarms, Walker recommends people practice basic fire safety like exit drills from their homes and create a meeting point. The Kansas City Fire Department recommends smoke detectors be tested each month, as well as doing the following:
Install new batteries as soon the low-battery warning alarm sounds, or at least one a year.
Clean smoke alarms regularly with a vacuum brush attachment.
Replace smoke alarms every 10 years.
This story was originally published July 8, 2025 at 4:47 PM.
