In response to the American Heart Association’s designation of February as American Heart Month, the city of Bothell is embarking on a new community awareness campaign called Bothell Heart Month.

The campaign will focus on heart health awareness by placing firefighters in high traffic areas throughout the community to offer free blood-pressure and blood-sugar screenings.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, with diabetes not far behind. The Bothell Heart Month campaign will evaluate participants’ blood pressure and blood sugar, provide information about risks and inform them of warning signs, according to Bothell Fire and EMS Public Information Officer Lisa Allen.

“High blood pressure and blood sugar can reduce your ability to live a healthy life, so take control of your health by knowing your numbers,” said Bothell Fire Chief Bob Van Horne. “This community service campaign empowers citizens to educate themselves about health risks so they can take a proactive step toward a healthier lifestyle.”

Free blood-pressure and blood-sugar screenings will be provided at various locations throughout Bothell. For an updated list of community event dates and locations, visit www.ci.bothell.wa.us.

According to Allen, Van Horne borrowed the idea for Bothell Heart Month from a similar program run in Renton where he served for many years.

“Our big thing is prevention is preferred,” Allen said, adding Van Horne wanted to supply the checks to perhaps prevent future medical emergencies.

Bothell City Council is expected to pass a resolution supporting Bothell Heart Month at its Feb. 2 meeting.