Lake County Gazette

The Buffalo Grove Fire Department has completed its first installation of a “bed shaker” smoke alarm system, aimed at alerting people who are deaf or hard of hearing during a fire. This marks the first use of such technology in Buffalo Grove and is among the earliest in Illinois.

The device was installed for a four-year-old resident who is deaf and cannot wear hearing aids while sleeping. The effort was made possible through the Camp I Am Me/Illinois Fire Safety Alliance’s “Be Alarmed!” program, which supplies free smoke alarms and specialized alert devices to residents across Illinois.

“This is an incredible example of how community engagement can make a real difference,” said Buffalo Grove Fire Chief Larry Kane. “Through our annual Public Safety Open House, one of our residents learned about this program and reached out. Our team was able to connect her with the right resources and complete the installation, all at no cost to the family. This is truly Smart. With heart. in action.”

The bed shaker alarm works by sensing when a standard smoke detector sounds. It then activates both a strobe light and a vibrating puck under the mattress to wake those who might not hear traditional alarms.

Members involved in the installation included Public Educator/Fire Inspector Peter Gripper, Acting Lieutenant Scott Wood, Firefighter/Paramedics Piotr Kujawowicz and Patrick Murray from Engine 26, Deputy Fire Chief Shawn Collins, Deputy Fire Marshal Bill Simmons, and Firefighter/Paramedic Ryan McCarthy.

Chief Kane noted that these programs support the department’s goal of ensuring safety for every resident: “Safety should never depend on circumstance,” he said. “This first-of-its-kind installation in Buffalo Grove demonstrates how innovation and compassion come together to protect all members of our community.”

Further information about the “Be Alarmed!” program can be found at ifsa.org/prevention-resources/smoke-alarm/.