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As cooler weather approaches, the Moss Point Fire Department is taking proactive steps to keep residents safe this winter. In the latest episode of The River City Chat with Mayor Billy Knight Sr., Fire Chief Davis joined the Mayor to announce a major home safety initiative in partnership with the American Red Cross, Chevron, and Ingalls Shipbuilding.
The “Sound the Alarm” campaign focuses on ensuring every Moss Point household has a working smoke detector. Chief Davis emphasized that preparation saves lives. “If we stay ready, we don’t have to get ready,” he said. “The Red Cross has partnered with us to help make sure our citizens are protected with functioning smoke detectors.”
The first phase of the program begins Saturday, November 1, as Fire Department and Red Cross teams canvass homes in the southwestern area of Moss Point. Headquarters for this effort will be set up at Second Baptist Church, whose pastor and congregation graciously offered their parking lot for the event.
During canvassing, volunteers will speak with residents, identify homes that need smoke detectors, and gather permission to install them. The following weekend, Saturday, November 8, teams will return to those homes to install brand-new detectors.
Homeowners who are not present during canvassing will find door hangers with information on how to schedule an installation. Chief Davis reminded residents that even if they don’t live in the initial target area, they can still sign up for a smoke detector through the Moss Point Fire Department at any time.
Chief Davis demonstrated one of the new detectors being distributed through the program. Unlike traditional models that require frequent battery changes, these detectors feature sealed 10-year lithium batteries — a major advancement in home fire safety.
“When the battery goes out, it’s time to replace the entire detector,” Davis explained. “That ensures families always have reliable protection.”
He also cautioned residents about the dangers of space heaters, which are a leading cause of winter house fires. Proper placement and functioning smoke detectors are key to preventing tragedy.
The initiative is supported by a $500,000 grant from the Mississippi State Fire Marshal’s Office, dedicated to providing smoke detectors for communities across the state. Additionally, Chevron and Ingalls Shipbuilding are contributing by providing lunch for volunteers and firefighters participating in the installation events.
“These efforts are not free,” said Mayor Billy Knight Sr. “We’re grateful for the partnerships that allow Moss Point to continue serving our residents and protecting their homes.”
Residents who wish to receive a free smoke detector or volunteer during the installation events can sign up at the Moss Point Fire Department or visit the team at Second Baptist Church between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Saturday, November 1.
Chief Davis closed the discussion with a reminder of the department’s mission:
“We’re all in this together. Our goal is to make sure every home in Moss Point is equipped and every family is protected.”
