In an effort to improve safety, local fire departments are partnering to offer residents in the unincorporated areas of Carnation and Duvall (ZIP codes 98014 and 98019) free address signs.

Many rural homes do not have clear addresses or driveway markings, which can cause a delay when emergency responders are trying to find a home. The Duvall (Fire District 45) and Carnation (Eastside Fire & Rescue) fire departments, along with the Carnation-Duvall Citizen Corps Council are working with King County Department of Natural Resources and Parks Community Service Areas grant program to provide address signs for rural residents of these communities.

Residents outside of the city limits can, for a limited time and while supplies last, receive a free address sign for their homes, by contacting the Duvall Fire Department, which is coordinating the program. To request a sign, call (425) 788-1625, or send e-mail to jshoop@duvallfire45.com by Dec. 15. Once the department has gathered the orders, residents’ local departments will contact them about installing the signs.

Another possibility for residents is to organize a neighborhood meeting on fire safety, with emergency professionals providing information on how you can implement Firewise practices in your community to include fire safety and community preparedness education, with a free address sign for anyone who attends (subject to availability).

For more information, visit www.eastsidefire-rescue.org, www.duvallfire45.com, http://carnationduvallcitizencorps.org, or www.kingcounty.gov/exec/community-service-areas.aspx.