Smoke alarms save lives. Smoke alarms that are properly installed and maintained play a vital role in reducing fire deaths and injuries. If there is a fire in your home, smoke spreads fast and you need smoke alarms to give you time to get out.

Here is what you need to know:

* A closed door may slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire. Install smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area. Install alarms on every level of the home.
* Large homes may need extra smoke alarms.
* Test your smoke alarms at least once a month. Press the test button to be sure the alarm is working.
* Today’s smoke alarms will be more technologically advanced to respond to a multitude of fire conditions, yet mitigate false alarms.
* When a smoke alarm sounds, get outside and stay outside.
* Replace all smoke alarms in your home every 10 years.