Neighbors Looking Out for Neighbors

The people who live closest to us are often the first to notice when something isn't right — and the first who can help when it matters most. Neighbors Looking Out for Neighbors is a Cincinnati Fire Department program built on that idea: stronger, safer neighborhoods, one conversation at a time.

It's simple. Knock on a door. Say hello. Walk through a short safety checklist with the people who live near you. That's the whole program.

How It Works

You don't need training, equipment, or a uniform. You just need a few minutes and a friendly introduction. Here's what the conversation looks like:

Start with a friendly hello.
"Hi, I'm your neighbor. Can I help you check on a few household safety items?"

Walk through the Community Fire Safety Checklist together:

Smoke Alarm Safety — Are working smoke detectors installed?
Ability to Exit — Could everyone in the home get out safely if there was a fire?
Clear Exit Paths — Are doorways and exits easy to reach?
Fire Escape Plan — Are there two ways out of every room? Is there a meeting place outside?
Cooking and Heating Safety — Is a fire extinguisher available? Are space heaters being used safely?
Additional Considerations — Does anyone in the home have medical needs, a disability, or young children who may need extra help in an emergency?

Why It Matters

Older adults, families with young children, and neighbors with medical needs are often the most vulnerable in a fire emergency. A short, friendly check-in can identify risks early — and let your neighbors know they're not alone.

FREE Smoke Detectors for Cincinnati Residents

CFD has a limited number of smoke detectors available free of charge to Cincinnati residents. If you or a neighbor needs one, submit a request through 311 and we'll help you get it installed.

Be the Neighbor Someone Is Grateful For

Pick one neighbor this week. Knock, say hi, and run through the list together. That's it. That's the program.

Let Us Know You Looked Out for a Neighbor

Complete the CFD Neighbors Looking Out for Neighbors response form so we can better support you, your neighbors and your community.

Cincinnati Fire Department Mission Statement

"The mission of the Cincinnati Fire Department is to protect lives and property, and to minimize the suffering of its customers during emergencies. The Cincinnati Fire Department strives to quickly restore normalcy to its customers' lives by responding to their needs in an expeditious manner."

The Cincinnati Fire Department was organized in 1853 and is the nation's oldest fully paid professional fire department, which is why we are proud to be "First in the Nation."

The CFD continues to seek new methods and ideas to improve and increase the level of services provided to the citizens of this community. It will continue to provide its hallmark prompt, courteous and professional service that is consistent with the CFD’s tradition and the City of Cincinnati’s high standards.