No injuries after Pierre daycare evacuated Tuesday because of smoke; Furnace malfunction thought to be the cause

There was smoke, but no fire when about a dozen kids were evacuated from a private daycare in Pierre Tuesday afternoon (Oct. 15, 2024).

Pierre Volunteer Fire Department Chief Ian Paul says the call was around 2pm to the 100 block of North Tyler Avenue.

Paul says there was a working smoke detector in the home. Coincidentally, he says, last week (Oct. 6-12, 2024) was National Fire Prevention Week and this year's theme is "Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!TM"

Advancements in technology have made new smoke detectors last longer, but if you still have the older style detectors, Paul says you should check those batteries.

With the home heating season upon us, Paul also encourages people to check their carbon monoxide detectors to be sure those are also functioning properly.