Fri Nov 07 19:00:00 UTC 2025: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Innovative Bed Shaker Alarms Enhance Fire Safety for Hearing-Impaired in North Suburban Homes
BUFFALO GROVE, IL – A groundbreaking initiative is underway in Chicago’s north suburbs to enhance fire safety for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. Dozens of homes are being equipped with bed shaker alarms, a device designed to rouse sleeping residents in the event of a fire.
Last week, a bed shaker alarm was installed in a Buffalo Grove home for a 4-year-old boy who does not wear his hearing aids at night. His mother, concerned about his safety in case of a fire, reached out to local officials for assistance.
“This is an incredible example of how community engagement can make a real difference,” stated Buffalo Grove Fire Chief Larry Kane.
The Buffalo Grove Fire Department partnered with Camp I Am Me and the Illinois Fire Safety Alliance’s “Be Alarmed!” smoke alarm program to quickly address the family’s needs. The “Be Alarmed!” program provides smoke alarms to Illinois residents at no cost.
Bed shaker alarms connect to existing smoke detectors and vibrate vigorously when the alarm sounds, ensuring even those with significant hearing loss are alerted to a fire. Officials hope that with use of the devices, residents will be able to escape safely.
First Piper 