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The largest percentage of home fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or alarms that don’t work. Smoke alarms provide a few minutes of advance warning in the event of a home fire, and that extra time can save lives. 

People who do not have smoke alarms in their home should have them installed, and those with smoke alarms should make sure they have been properly maintained and updated. 

Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of the home, as well as inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas of the home. People should test their smoke alarms once a month by pushing the test button, and replace alarm batteries at least once a year.  Other smoke alarm safety recommendations include:

• Installing a new smoke alarm battery immediately if an alarm chirps, warning that the battery is low.
• Teaching children what the smoke alarm sounds like, and what they should do when they hear it.
• Keeping the alarm clean by vacuuming over and around it regularly.  Dust and debris can interfere with the alarm’s operation.  Do not paint over the smoke alarm.
• Moving the alarm farther away from the kitchen or bathroom if the device is sounding nuisance alarms. Never disable a smoke alarm.

The Red Cross also recommends that families create and practice a home fire escape plan, which should include at least two escape routes for every room in the home. Families should choose a convenient meeting place outside of the home and practice their escape plan at least twice a year with all family members.