When a fire or medical emergency occurs, firefighters are working against the clock to save lives and protect property. Local fire departments have started a program to cut seconds off of a critical part of every emergency call: the emergency response.

Area departments, including the Bellbrook Fire Department, are selling reflective address signs to help emergency responders find addresses at any time of day or weather condition.

In Bellbrook's case, the signs sold benefit more than those who purchase them. Part of the price of each sign goes to the Bellbrook Firefighters' Association, eventually helping to fund fire prevention and community activities.

Chief Scott Hall suggests that the reflective signs be placed near the driveway or on a very conspicuous part of the structure.

"When equipment rolls to assist one of our residents, finding the location is a critical part of the call," Hall said. "With a sign placed on a mailbox post or near the front door or garage of the residence, we are able to arrive at the location much easier and without having to hesitate to confirm the address."

Firefighter Jason Leopold said that the signs are a big asset to emergency responders.

"Being able to spot an address is critical, and whether the address is the one were looking for or not, a visible address certainly helps speed the response," he said.

The signs are $10.00 and are sold at both of Bellbrook's fire stations and by phone at 848-3272. Other area departments conduction similar programs include Washington Township, Kettering and Beavercreek.

Release I99-01