Nahant Fire Department, Town of Nahant, American Legion Post 215 to Launch Detector Replacement Program

The Town of Nahant and Nahant Fire Department and American Legion Post 215 have launched a donation fund to support creation of a detector replacement program in memory of three residents who died unexpectedly in January.

The Benson Fund will honor three members of the Benson family who died unexpectedly on Jan. 8. Elevated carbon monoxide levels were found in the home. The program was announced at the Board of Selectmen’s meeting on Wednesday, March 20, beginning the Get Alarmed Nahant initiative.

During the initial planning for Get Alarmed Nahant, American Legion Post 215 immediately committed $2,000 to recognize a Benson family member who served in the Armed Forces.

“The loss of the Benson family is not only a tragedy.  At Nahant American Legion Post 215 we see it as a call to action,” Post 215 Commander Dan McMackin said.

“In collaboration with Nahant Fire Department and the Board of Selectmen, we want every Nahanter to be safe from carbon monoxide, the silent killer. This group will provide and install carbon monoxide detectors, at no cost, to any Nahanter who requests one. John Benson was a veteran who served his county. Now his memory can serve his community.”

The Town intends to match the American Legion donation with $2,000 from the American Recovery Plan Act.

“The deaths of three Benson family members deeply affected the town,” said Mark Cullinan, Chair of the Board of Selectmen. “The fund is a great way to turn this tragedy into a positive and improve fire safety for our residents. On behalf of the town, thank you to the American Legion and Commander McMackin for stepping up and becoming important partners in this effort.”

The program is intended to assist vulnerable populations, such as seniors or those who may not be able to afford new detectors, though any resident may apply.

The Fire Department also will partner with the American Red Cross, which will provide battery-operated smoke detectors, a limited number of carbon monoxide detectors, and fire safety pamphlets.  

Those interested in donating may do so by check to the Town of Nahant, with “The Benson Fund” in the memo line. Residents may also contact the Fire Department business line at 781-581-0079, Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., or email Fire Chief Austin Antrim at aantrim@nahantfire.org.

The Town and the Fire Department will be pursuing additional outside funding to expand access to the program.