WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — With fires on the rise, the Navajo Department of Emergency Management (DEM), Kayenta Chapter, and American Red Cross (ARC) have launched a local smoke alarm initiative.
On May 8, NDEM and ARC hosted an outreach event at the Kayenta Chapter House with 12 teams of volunteers, including members from IHS, N.A.T.I.V.E., and Kayenta Boarding School, who installed smoke alarms across the community.
A total of 43 alarms were installed in 17 homes.
“We didn’t just show up, install the alarm, and leave,” said Sharen Sandoval, director for NDEM. “We sat with the families and coached them on fire safety. What it is and why it’s important.”
Sandoval said house fires are a major issue in the Nation.
“What was surprising is 50% of house fires can be prevented with a smoke detector,” Sandoval said. “We get a call for a home fire every other day.”
Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren, a consistent supporter of NDEM’s initiatives, praised the effort.
“Education is key when it comes to fire safety, and our first responders are doing what they can to not only help in the case of an emergency, but give our communities tools to stay safe,” President Nygren said.
The event followed an April visit by ARC leadership to Window Rock to gain insight into emergency response on the Nation. NDEM identified key improvements, including direct ARC contact for faster response and more culturally relevant materials, such as Diné-translated safety guides.
NDEM also secured a tribal grant from Arizona Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster to strengthen these efforts.
“Protecting our families starts with simple steps,” President Nygren said. “Something as small as a smoke alarm can mean the difference between life and death.
