The Center for Hearing & Deaf Services Assistive Device Center continues to expand its community outreach efforts through partnerships focused on accessibility, education, and safety for individuals with hearing loss.

Recently, HDS partnered with the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire to provide accessible fire safety education and distribute flashing and vibrating smoke detector kits throughout the community.

At the August Wilson Birthday Celebration Block Party, HDS and the Bureau of Fire distributed 100 smoke detector kits to seniors and individuals with hearing loss. Attendees also participated in a fire safety presentation led by Fire Inspector and Fire Prevention Officer Lisa Epps-Cuda, while HDS Assistive Device Center Directors Tazi Hughes and Sharon Morris provided demonstrations and instructions on how the devices work.

The outreach continued at DePaul School for Hearing and Speech, where students participated in an engaging Fire Safety Presentation that included educational videos, hands-on demonstrations, and the Junior Fireman Pledge led by Fire Marshal Lisa Epps-Cuda. HDS also distributed 40 flashing and vibrating smoke detectors and introduced students and teachers to additional assistive devices designed to support accessibility and safety.

These initiatives reflect HDS’ ongoing commitment to ensuring that individuals who are Deaf, hard of hearing, or DeafBlind have access to the resources, tools, and education needed to navigate everyday life safely and confidently.



Through partnerships, outreach, and community-based education, the HDS Assistive Device Center continues working to make accessibility a reality across the region.