Fire Prevention

The Deanna Project

On January 12, 2009, four year old Deanna Lafferty (pictured here) and her parents tragically lost their lives in a fire as they slept. Even though neighbors tried to alert and evacuate the residents, it was already too late. The only thing that could have possibly made a difference for the family would have been a WORKING smoke detector

Therefore, the Galax Volunteer Fire Department is initiating a smoke detector awareness program called The Deanna Project. Members will be asking local merchants and residents provide us with smoke detectors or funds to purchase detectors. Department members will “Blitz” target areas in our community by going door to door to determine if the residence has a working smoke detector. If they do not, then one will be provided and installed at that time at no cost to the homeowner.

If you would like to donate to this project, or if you know someone in need of a smoke detector, PLEASE contact the Galax Volunteer Fire Department at 276-236-2189, if no answer leave a message, or at firedept@galaxfire.com/. Someone will be in contact with you.

Also, the Galax Fire Department’s Fire Prevention And Education Trailer will be taken to area schools to reinforce to children the importance of fire safety. If you have a group or school that is interested in a visit from the Fire Prevention Trailer, then please contact us.
We hope that you will partner with us to make sure that some good comes from this tragedy. Thank you for you support of The Deanna Project.

Sincerely,
Galax Volunteer Fire Department