The department held a forum Monday night to discuss what needs to be done.

The devastating fire last week killed two Holts Summit girls.

Now, the Holts Summit Fire Department is looking at ideas to improve the way it responds to fires.

At the meeting Monday, leaders met to discuss ways to offer better fire protection.

One idea would make it mandatory to provide smoke detectors and/or fire extinguishers in rental properties.

Also, the chief said mandated inspections may be a way to insure those devices are working.

The department also said the idea of having paid firefighters in the area is still up in the air, but another option may help.

"We have room for six resident volunteers, those areas will be ready for occupation probably by early summer. With that we'll have night time coverage. We'll have some daytime coverage," said Scott Brooks, Holts Summit Fire Department.

"I think the most specific thing we want to see is some full-time firefighters just so the response times are a little quicker," said Hollie Kribbs, the victims' aunt.

Brooks said those live-in volunteers alone will assist greatly in response times.

As far as full-time firefighters, Brooks said that's a stretch, but he will work towards that goal.