Smoke detectors were handed out in Borough Park as the community tries to cope with the devastating loss of seven children during a Midwood house fire.
Assemblyman Dov Hikind distributed 200 free smoke alarms with help from Home Depot Tuesday. He's urging everyone to learn from the tragedy by making sure they're prepared in case of a fire.
Fire officials are blaming the fatal fire on a malfunctioning hot plate left on in the Sassoon family's home for the Sabbath. Hikind says many are re-evaluating the common practice on the holy day, and he wants everyone to make sure their appliances are in good condition.
New smoke detectors now have batteries that are good for 10 years. They retail for about $24, a small investment that could save lives.