county
Wellsville Chamber hosts annual awards dinner
BY KATHRYN ROSS
WELLSVILLE — For more than 30 years the Wellsville Area Chamber of Commerce has given out awards, and this year’s was the most well-attended event in Chamber Executive Director Bruce Thomas’ recollection.
“We have a great crowd here tonight to honor our businesses and volunteers and I think this is the largest number of guests we’ve had during my time here,” he said.
The event served at the Wellsville Country Club saw awards presented to six individuals
and two businesses. In recent years the Chamber has increased the number of awards it offers. It now recognizes individuals for service in Caregiving, First Responders, Educators, Veterans, and Youth in addition to the traditional awards for Community Service, the Newest Business and Business of the Year.
The most impressive awards were handed out to Kent Brewing Company of Andover for the Business of the Year and New Business of the Year, to the Solutions Hub of Wellsville.
The coveted Community Service award was
presented, for a second time, to Tim Colligan.
Upon Kent Brewing Company receiving The Business of the Year award founder and brew meister Ed Kent took the podium. He thanked his family for their support in getting the business started and their continued support.
Kent Beer Company started in 2020, brewing five gallons of beer at a time. It now brews over 2500 gallons annually.
In addition to serving 19 varieties of beer, the brewery accommodates parties and has hosted events for sever-
Tracing the Senecas’ Forbidden Trail in the Twin Tiers
Editor’s note: The following article was shared by Catherine Schuyler Chapter, NSDAR, as part of an ongoing series of articles commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
BY JOAN DRAKE SINCLAIR
“If you study a modern contour or geodesic survey map and plot upon it the known trail of the early inhabitants, you will notice immediately that the highways of today essentially follow the routes of the ancient trails. River valleys were natural travel avenues. If streams were deep enough, rafting or canoeing was easiest,
but if not, the bottom lands still afforded easier movement than hilly terrain. Here, too, were found plentiful food and water, the necessities for life and travel.”
From: Hilbert, The Crooked Lake Review, July 1991
This article explores one of the early, and many say the most intriguing, trailways that followed the east-west rivers and tributaries and their offshoots, through the region we now identify as the Southern Tier of Upstate New York and the Twin Tiers of New York and Pennsylvania. If one were to weave back and
forth between these two states, and for the most part, following Interstate 86 while in New York, one would not be too far off the beaten path named the “Forbidden Trail.” This, however, was not the most travelled or visible east-west route of 17th century travelers or those who came before. That lay to the north.
Adapted from the Crooked Lake Review –1991: Reaching from the Hudson River westward to the Niagara Frontier, hard-packed by moccasined feet, was a trail spanning what is now New York
state. Called the “Iron Path” by the early Jesuit missionaries, it was the Great Central Trail of the Iroquois. This trail connected the nations of the Iroquois (Haudenosaunee) Confederacy. The Great Central Trail was the primary east-west span of travel. However, there were two north-south routes using the Genesee Valley. One primary trail led south along the Genesee River to Caneadea, then southwest to the Allegheny River and westward to Ohio by way of Cuba, Olean and beyond.
Caneadea
FilLmore
Friendship
Genesee
Wellsville
Photo by Kathryn Ross
Ed Kent and Shane Allen (seated) received the top honors at the annual Wellsville Area Chamber of Commerce Awards dinner Saturday night. Other honorees included (standing, from left) Dr. Zahi Kassas, Carol Mariotti and Betsy Kent, Tim Colligan, Chris Perkins, Ella Green, Larry Peacock and Kris Green.
Wellsville Chamber continued on PAGE 6
In Addison a bronze plaque
From Piccadilly busker to global brand: The exceptional journey of Walker Metalsmiths
ANDOVER — Walker Metalsmiths is a business that proves high-tech global success and traditional craftsmanship can thrive in the village of Andover.
The business blends deep artistry and devotion behind each piece, according to the Allegany County Industrial Development Agency (ACIDA), which is highlighting businesses in the county. The intricate, interlaced knots of Celtic design aren’t just patterns, they are symbols of timeless connection and dedication.
craftsman who chose to build his legacy right here at home.
“Sales of engagement rings are definitely picking up for us,” said founder Stephen Walker. “Any search engine paid placement for ‘engagement rings’ is extremely costly. ‘Below the fold’ where the free organic results begin is where we are enjoying success.”
The team has worked this past year on developing new designs, showcasing jewelry through photography and refining its webpages. In the digital age, reputation and visibility are everything. Walker Metalsmiths, founded by Stephen Walker, has achieved what many major corporations strive for: a top organic Google ranking for “Celtic Engagement Rings.”
This digital prominence means that when couples around the world search for Celtic symbols of their love, their path leads directly to Allegany County.
er, Barbara, a pipe major for the Glengarry Girls.
While Walker’s handcrafted engagement rings and wedding bands are shipped globally, each piece is infused with the authenticity of a master
Walker’s journey to becoming a world-renowned jeweler began at Andover Central School, where he met his mentor, the late William “Scotty” MacCrea. A dedicated art teacher, accomplished bagpiper and Celtic scholar, MacCrea became the bridge between Walker’s emerging artistic talents and his ancestral music.
By age 11, Walker was already immersed in the world of piping, influenced by his moth-
By 14, his life revolved around the Allegany Highlanders Bagpipe Band, a community that would eventually spark his career in metalwork.
through the UK, Ireland and France, supporting himself performing on the street as a bagpipe busker. His career as a jeweler actually grew out of this musical passion; he began by crafting the silver and metal regalia — the ornate buckles and pins — for bagpipe uniforms.
This foundation led Walker to Syracuse University, where he earned his degree in metalsmithing in 1980. His work was so innovative that he was courted by several prestigious graduate programs. He ultimately chose Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, earning his Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in 1982. During this time, he mastered highly technical processes such as mokume-gane, a traditional Japanese metal-layering technique, and “married metals,” techniques that continue to set his work apart today. Perhaps the most unique chapter of Walker’s life took place between high school and college. For a year and a half, he traveled
Today, that same level of precision is applied to pieces ranging from delicate jewelry to magnificent sacred metalwork, work that has been commissioned for bishops and cardinals. Walker continues to refine his craft and pass his legacy on through apprenticeships at his Andover workshop.
ACIDA is a public benefit corporation of New York state, established to provide financial incentives and infrastructure support to foster economic development. For more information call (607) 968-0214 or email Craig. Clark@alleganyco.gov.
enduring ideals of liberty and progress. Now you can commemorate this historic milestone with the “Salute to America” 250th Anniversary Express model train collection from The Bradford Exchange! Honoring Our Nation’s Legacy The gleaming locomotive proudly bears a sculpted medallion of the Great Seal. Behind it, the tender displays a sculpted bald eagle and American ag with colonial stars and the 250th Anniversary artwork. As the collection continues, each car showcases a de ning chapter in America’s story. Includes FREE Model Train Operating System Begin your real working model train collection—compatible with any HO-scale track—with the illuminating “Spirit of Freedom” locomotive. It can be yours for only $89.99, payable in three easy payments of $29.99 each (plus a total of $14.99 shipping and service; see bradfordexchange.com). Subsequent cars will be billed separately at the same affordable price and shipped about every other month, including the track set, power-pack and speed controller—a $100 value—that come
with Shipment Two! Your satisfaction is assured with our
and
Along with Shipment Two (the “Coal Tender”),
and
Photos provided by Walker Metalsmiths Walker Metalsmiths of Andover has developed a global following in crafting Celtic jewelry.
Stephen Walker, founder of Walker Metalsmiths of Andover.
dining & Entertainment
Stitched INK, a social enterprise of The Arc Allegany Steuben, specializing in custom screen printing and embroidery, announces the launch of its “America 250” apparel line, created in honor of America’s 250th anniversary celebration.
The collection features an array of designs, from classic Americana themes to
modern expressions.
As part of the Stitched INK Originals Collection, the release represents the organization’s commitment to creating purpose-driven apparel that tells a story. Every design is developed and produced by the Stitched INK team and providing meaningful employment for adults with intellectual and developmental
Friendship Legion plans Memorial Day activities
FRIENDSHIP — Friendship American Legion Post 1168 announced plans for Memorial Day, May 25, with participants asked to meet at 7:30 a.m. at the post. Memorial services will be observed at the following cemeteries: Catholic, Baptist, Maple Grove, Mount Hope, East Hill, Nile and South Branch. The parade will commence at 10 a.m. starting at the Friendship Fire Department and ending at the Friendship Free Library, followed by a memorial service.
Artist Eric Elwell to speak at Cuba Library
CUBA — Join organizers at the Cuba Circulating Library on Wed, May 27, at 6:30 p.m., with Eric Elwell, Houghton-based artist and published illustrator, as he shares the story behind his creative journey.
From children’s books to video games and board games, Eric’s work spans an impressive range of mediums and industries. Hear how he blends digital and traditional techniques to bring his illustrations to life and learn what it’s like to make a career as a working artist.
‘America 250’ collection from Arc Allegany Steuben’s Stitched INK
disabilities (I/DD).
Each piece not only celebrates America’s past and present but
also reflects the inclusive future Stitched INK is helping to build. “This collection is
Cuba Library Spring Tea celebrates America 250 with DAR
CUBA — The Cuba Circulating Library invites you to its Annual Spring Tea on Tuesday, May 27, at 1 p.m., with the program celebrating America 250 with guest speakers from the Catherine Schuyler Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution.
They will share the stories of Allegany County’s Revolutionary War Patriots — including early settlers and those whose descendants made their homes here — and present plans for an upcoming Allegany County Patriots’ Monument.
Summer events commemorating the nation’s founding will also be highlighted. The chapter’s Revolutionary Cookbook will be available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting the monument fund.
Space is limited so registration is required. Guests are welcome to bring their own teacup or use one provided — light refreshments will be served. Contact the library at (585) 968-1668 or cuba@stls.org to sign up.
about more than commemorating a historic anniversary,” said Christopher Koehler, Arc Allegany-Steuben’s vice president of business operations. “It’s about bringing people together through shared pride while showcasing the talents and contributions of our team. That’s what makes this collec-
tion truly special.”
The “America 250” collection includes eight t-shirt designs, along with a complementary line of commemorative hats.
The collection is available exclusively through the Stitched INK Semiquincentennial online storefront at usa250si.itemorder.com.
The Arc Allegany Steuben’s Stitched INK enterprise is offering an “America 250” line of t-shirts and hats.
Alfred State students present redesign project for the Church of San Paolo
ALFRED — Alfred State College (ASC) students studying at Sant’Anna Institute (Sorrento, Italy) presented architectural redesign proposals for the Church of San Paolo. This was the first time a project focused on a religious site.
Warren Auty, Theresa D’Amato-Neff, Connor Dolan, Kathy Galindo, Cole Kornow, Caley “CJ” Larsen, Sarah O’Connor, Megan Pinzel, James Prendergast, Faith Rinella, Alessandra Santoro and Anthony Woods spent the semester in Italy.
The Church of San Paolo, a historic and spiritual landmark within the local community, offers a rich context shaped by centuries of architectural evolution and cultural significance. The project invited students to reflect on the relationship between heritage and contemporary design, approaching the site not only as a structure, but as a space of memory and identity.
Over the course of
the semester, students approached the project with a focus on design, historical research, and community context. Their work reflects not only technical skill, but also a thoughtful interpretation of place, demonstrating how
health & Wellness
architecture can serve as a bridge between past and future.
The presentation offered an opportunity for the students to share these proposals with the community, highlighting the role of international academic collaboration
in fostering cultural exchange, creative inquiry, and meaningful engagement with local heritage.
D’Amato-Neff, Dolan, and Larsen reflected on the experience. “As a student body from a small-town college, the opportunity
to do work outside of our country and on an international scale was an invaluable experience. It broadened all our mindsets to a much larger scale of thought, yet we maintained an
intimate class setting that made us uniquely our own. Without the opportunity to travel abroad and practice architecture outside of our home, we would have never learned the distinctiveness of our profession across each nation, which is a lesson that has made each of us more well-rounded students and aspiring architects.”
Alfred State has partnered with Sant’Anna for 17 years. Led this semester by Associate Professor Alan Vlakancic, historic buildings became living laboratories where students connected academic study with direct engagement in local history, culture, and the community.
The students concluded, “We are eternally grateful to Sant’Anna for hosting us and providing this opportunity, and to Professor Alan Vlakancic, who worked hard to ensure this experience was the greatest it could be!”
automotive
BY RAY MAGLIOZZI
Dear Car Talk:
I’ve been driving cars that take regular gas for more than 30 years. I just purchased a brand-new car that takes premium gas, and I may have screwed up.
The first time the car needed gas, I filled up about half the tank with premium gas at a more expensive gas station near me. Then drove to a place where it’s much cheaper (same “brand”) and filled it up the rest of the way.
(Dope slap!)
I’m concerned that at the second gas station, I may have pressed the “regular” button instead of “premium” -- ugh!
Have I done any damage to my car? And should I plan on driving until my tank is pretty much empty before filling it with premium (provided I remember)?
— Creature Of Habit
Oh, my goodness. This new car is ruined, Creature of Habit. But as a favor, I’ll give you $500 bucks for it. No, your car is going to be fine. Check the notice on the inside of your gas cap cover. It’ll either say “Premium Fuel Recommended” or “Pre-
mium Fuel Required.” There’s a difference.
If it says “recommended,” then your car is designed to run on pretty much any grade of gasoline. All cars have knock sensors these days. And if the knock sensor detects a lower octane fuel by picking up signs of pre-ignition, it’ll signal the computer to adjust the engine parameters -like the ignition timing -- to run safely on that lower-octane fuel.
You may experience a slight decrease in power and mileage, but the car will be completely unharmed. And if the changes are undetect-
able to you, you can opt to save the 30 cents a gallon at the pump every time.
On the other hand, if you’re driving a $160,000 Porsche or other high-performance car, you may see a notice that reads “Premium Required.” In that case, you should regularly fill the tank with premium. Cars with very high compression ratios and powerful turbochargers can reportedly be harmed over time
Creatures of habit, pay close attention at the gas station
if they’re forced to run continuously on lower-octane fuel.
But even those highend cars have knock sensors designed to accommodate lower-octane fuel. So, putting a tank of 87 octane in your BMW 7-Series every once in a while is not going to do any damage to the engine. It’ll adjust to the fuel and be fine.
Of course, if you’re still worried about it, keep my $500 offer in mind.
Photo provided by Alfred State College
Alfred State’s students that spent the semester studying in Sorrento, Italy pose after presenting redesign ideas for the Church of San Paolo.
Thelma Rogers Genealogical & Historical Society announces community grant distributions
WELLSVILLE — Preserving and celebrating the rich history of Wellsville isn’t something only one organization can accomplish alone — it takes a network of groups, volunteers and community-minded leaders.
With that spirit of collaboration in mind, the board of the Thelma Rogers Genealogical & Historical Society (TRGHS) recognized that the impact of the inaugural Jingle & Glow could reach even further.
Thanks to the generosity of sponsors and supporters, proceeds from the first Jingle & Glow helped advance TRGHS’s mission and the Nathaniel Dike Museum. Proceeds also created an opportunity for TRGHS to support other programs and initiatives that preserve the community’s heritage and sustain its stories for generations to come.
The TRGHS board made the decision to share a portion of the Jingle & Glow proceeds with the following organizations, in recognition of their commitment to preserving and enhanc-
ing the history and character of Wellsville and the surrounding area:
• Fassett Greenspace will receive a grant to enhance its area for events and programs. By maintaining this open green space tied to the Fassett name, it honors the impact that family had on the development of the village and at the same time preserves identity, memory and community pride.
• Babcock Theatre will receive a grant to support the new
Christmas Puppet Parade, chaired by board member, Elissa Goetches, to coincide with the Chamber’s Hometown Parade and Jingle & Glow, making new history.
• Emerald Hook and Ladder Company will receive support will help them continue its long tradition and history of protecting Wellsville and the surrounding communities.
• The Wellsville Junior Firefighter Program builds the next generation of first
Jones Memorial rated 4 stars by CMS for 3rd year in a row
WELLSVILLE —
Jones Memorial Hospi-
tal has achieved a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the federal agency that provides health coverage to more than 160 million Americans though Medicare, Medicaid and the Health Insurance Marketplace.
This marks the third straight year that the hospital has maintained a 4-star classification from CMS. The hospital first achieved this designation in 2024.
“Receiving a 4-star rating from CMS the first time was a huge honor. Maintaining that designation speaks volumes about the level of care our staff and associates are consistently providing to the community each and every day,” said Jim Helms,
JMH president and CEO. “We’re honored to serve our patients and community and humbled to receive this recognition — a recognition which belongs to every associate, volunteer and medical staff member who chooses to make a difference here at Jones.
“Whether at the bedside or behind the scenes, I’m grateful for their partnership,” he added.
Some of the metrics contributing to Jones’ rating include high marks in timely and effective care including in surgical settings and the emergency department. The hospital also received strong scores in maternal care, perinatal care, health equity, mortality rates, low 30-day readmission rates and stroke care.
Outdoors
Sandra Watkins, chief nursing officer, emphasized that achieving and maintaining a 4-star CMS rating reflects the dedication and teamwork of every associate.
“Quality improvement is an ongoing journey, and we remain focused on advancing patient safety, enhancing outcomes, and delivering the highest level of care close to home for our community,” she said. “While the CMS star rating measures performance across specific historical benchmarks, our teams continue to evaluate opportunities for growth and innovation to ensure we are meeting the evolving needs of our patients and families.”
responders while fostering community pride and service.
• Dating back to the 19th century, Woodlawn Cemetery is one of the oldest in the Wellsville area. It serves as a lasting record of Wellsville’s past, honoring generations of residents who helped shape our community.
• The origins of the David A. Howe Public Library date back as far as 1856 and the current building
is an iconic part of Wellsville’s historical fabric. This grant will be used to bring a program for the 202627 season.
“On behalf of the board of the TRGHS, I want to extend heartfelt thanks to the generous sponsors and supporters who made our first Jingle & Glow such a success,” said board member Jackie Comstock. “Because of their support, TRGHS was able to create a beautiful and memorable event for the community while also giving back in a way that truly makes a difference. Supporting local history through
celebration is something very special indeed.” Planning is now underway for the 2nd Annual Jingle & Glow 2026, organized by the Thelma Rogers Genealogical Historical Society, which promises to once again bring the community together for a festive and meaningful holiday experience at the Fassett Greenspace. Sponsorship opportunities for Jingle & Glow 2026 are available. Those interested in supporting this new community tradition are encouraged to contact Comstock for more information at (585) 5934551.
Dr. Kevin McCormick, chief medical officer at Jones, added, “This achievement is a powerful affirmation of the dedication and clinical excellence of our physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, nurses, and entire medical team. Every day our staff go above and beyond to provide evidence-based, compassionate care with a singular focus: improving outcomes for every patient we serve.”
For more information and to learn more about the star rating system, visit medicare. gov/care-compare/
Photo provided
Pictured from left are Jackie Comstock, Kate Elliott and Annie Comstock at the David A. Howe Library.
It also features special events and hosts food trucks at its secluded venue in the rolling countryside of a Kent Farms off Jones Rd.
The second top honor went to Shane Allen, founder of The Solution Hub in Wellsville, providing individuals and businesses with technical Internet support. It also provides office space for developing and older businesses and a stage and a gathering place for individual, corporate, and organizational needs.
Allen thanked the
Lesser known was the Canisteo Path, a secondary trail that started at Painted Post and followed the Canisteo River valley its entire length and ended at Caneadea on the Genesee, where it joined the Allegheny Trail to the southwest and the Niagara Trail to the west. These well-marked and well-known trails connected the major Indian villages at Painted Post, Canisteo, Caneadea, Oil Spring and Ischua (or Olean).
Chamber for his recognition and said that he also wanted to thank Ed and Laura Pekarek for their support.
Upon receiving his Community Service award Tim Colligan said. “This is a unique group. I’m proud to be part of it. I just want Wellsville to thrive and survive, and it takes a village and people like these to do that.”
The most exciting moment and support came when Dr. Zahi Kassas took the podium. He is the recipient of the Caregiver Service award. The crowd
stood and clapped for the physician who is retiring after 29 years of service to the area. He told about coming to the United States in 1992 and being totally lost and scared at Kennedy airport and wondering why he had come here.
He told the crowd, “Please don’t despair. Take life one step at a time. That young man who was lost and cried all the time, you are honoring 35 years later tonight.”
The other award winners spoke briefly and included first responder Chris Perkins
who has served in the Genesee Hose Company since 1992 and currently serves as the deputy town supervisor in Whitesville.
Larry Peacock who was awarded for 34 years in education, working not only at BOCES and as a driver ed teacher, but also as the kindergarten teacher and coach at Wellsville Central School. He said, “I love Wellsville and I love your kids. Thank you for this award and the opportunity to teach your children. It’s not about me. It’s about the kids, my colleagues,
However, to the Post, Addison, Canisteo, Hartsville, Andover, they moved westward towards Ohio.
my co-teachers and my wife.” Kris Green was awarded Veteran of the Year. He served 20 years in the United States Air Force before returning home to work at Jones Memorial Hospital. He is also a member of the Lions Club, Little League, a Little League coach and a member of the school board. He said, “Life is being part of something bigger. It is being part of a community. Wellsville is a community that supports our veterans. Thank you for this award and supporting
bidden Trail crossing is marked. To the east, in Addison, is a bronze plaque marker, placed by the NYS Society Daughters of American Colonists, which reads:
our military.”
The youth service award went to Wellsville High School Junior Ella Green, sports photographer for the school. She said, “Thank you for this award. I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to serve my community through my photography.”
The evening ended on a high note and with a shout out to Sabre’s fans to hurry home to watch the team play the Montreal Canadians in the sixth game of the Eastern Conference semifinals.
system in the 1760s, by which time the system was likely to have been well established.
To the extent possible, the Forbidden Trail, within this system, remained secret and it was forbidden to any non-native traveler and to any Native American enemy of the Senecas until the Treaty of Fort Stanwix in 1784. Travel on the trail by undesirables was punishable by burning at the stake.
Just east of Andover on Route 417, there is a sign where the For-
“This part of the Great Iroquois Trail System running from Tioga Point (Athens) westward through the heart of Seneca Territory was called “The Forbidden Trail” as Keepers of the Western Door forbade Europeans to use the trail and access their territory. The trail passed through Addison at this point.”
There is a Forbidden Trail Park, with a winding three-quarter-mile out and back path that leads to the cistern of the Carantouan Springs, U.S. Route 220 in Waverly. This is now part of a greenway.
According to park information: “The original path led up the Chemung Valley past the Indian Communities at Kanawohalla (Elmira), Assinisink (Corning) and Painted Post to Secaughcung at the headwaters of a tributary of the Chemung, known as the Canisteo River.”
It’s interesting to imagine what was encountered by those for whom the Forbidden Trail was accessible in the 18th century and before. With current highway systems following similar routes to those established by indigenous peoples and early settlers, and knowledge of the current villages, towns and cities through which it passed, we too have access to this historic terrain.
home improvement
Upgrades to ensure a home stays safe and secure
A home can never be too safe or secure. When residents of a home leave or go to bed at night, a wide range of safety and security features can protect them and their belongings. In-home amenities also can make homes safer for residents with mobility issues or other limitations.
Homeowners indeed have no shortage of options when seeking to make their homes safer and more secure. An assortment of safety and security features can help homeowners plan for nearly every situation that could put residents in jeopardy.
• Age-related safety features: Various features can help seniors age in place. The National Institute on Aging recommends installing grab bars in showers and bathtubs to reduce the risk of falls when bathing. Such features also can help seniors balance themselves while they bathe and get in and out of showers and tubs. Nonslip strips can be installed on bathroom and kitchen floors in areas that might be vulnerable to spills or puddling. The NIA also recommends fixing
all carpets firmly on the floors, which may necessitate the removal of all area rugs. Adding handrails on staircases so there’s something to grab onto on each side the staircase also can enhance the safety of these potentially risky spaces in a home.
Entry point security features: Deadbolts, security cameras and/or smart doorbells make it easier to keep strangers out and monitor entryways. Smart doorbells may deter criminals from approaching a property. Locks and sensors also can be installed on all windows, and especially those on the first floor that can be accessed from
the ground. Locks on sliding doors can be reinforced with secondary locks that further prevent the door from being opened from the outside once the locks are engaged.
• Fire safety features: The National Fire Protection Association notes that the death rate in home structure fires is approximately 60 percent lower in homes with working smoke alarms than in homes with no alarms or in homes where alarms are not working. The NFPA adds that smoke alarms monitor for smoke and control the speaker that emits the sounds that notify occupants of the presence of smoke. The NFPA
recommends both ionization smoke alarms and photoelectric smoke alarms, as each employs a different type of sensor. The combination of both in a home ensures people are alerted in the case of both flaming fires (ionization alarms) and smoking, smoldering fires (photoelectric alarms). A functioning fire extinguisher also is a must (disposable extinguishers typically last between 10 and 12 years), as is a carbon monoxide detector.
• Lighting: Sufficient lighting in a home and around the exterior of a home and even the property can be another important safety and
security measure. Exterior lighting deters intruders because it makes them more visible to residents while they’re awake and makes them easier to see on overnight security cameras, which can be enough to keep them away. Interior lighting makes it easier to navigate a home at twilight and at night. Hallway night lights can make trips to the bathroom safer, and lighting alongside stairways can make these spaces easier to navigate when the rest of the home is dark. There’s no shortage of ways to make homes safer and more secure, which should be a priority for homeowners of all ages.
