Buffalo Grove, IL – A new fire safety initiative is bringing peace of mind to families in Buffalo Grove and surrounding north suburban communities, with the installation of specialized “bed shaker” alarms designed to alert deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals to emergencies. The devices were recently placed in the home of a local family with a 4-year-old son who doesn’t wear hearing aids while sleeping.
This rollout addresses a critical safety gap for a vulnerable population, ensuring those with hearing impairments receive timely warnings during a fire. The initiative, a collaboration between local fire departments and the Illinois Fire Safety Alliance (IFSA), highlights a growing awareness of inclusive fire safety measures and the importance of community-driven solutions.
The Buffalo Grove Fire Department partnered with Camp I Am Me after a mother expressed concerns about her sonS ability to be alerted to a fire while asleep. “This is an incredible example of how community engagement can make a real difference,” stated Fire Chief Larry Kane.
The “bed shaker” alarms vibrate intensely, waking individuals even during deep sleep. Officials say the program was made possible through the IFSA’s “Be Alarmed!” smoke alarm program. The IFSA provides resources and support for fire safety education and alarm installations across Illinois.
The program aims to expand access to these life-saving devices, offering a crucial layer of protection for deaf and hard-of-hearing residents throughout the north suburbs.
