Many of these deaths occurred in homes with no smoke detectors or no working smoke detectors.

When detectors fail, it’s often because its batteries are dead or missing. Therefore, make a point to test your smoke detectors annually.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Have somebody go to the farther point of the house from the detector
2. Push and hold the testing button for 5 seconds to activate the alarm
3. Confirm the alarm is audible by all parties

You should also buy smoke detector aerosol and spray it directly into the device.  This will simulate a real fire.  If the alarm doesn’t sound, the smoke detector will fail when it’s needed most.  Replace the device immediately — even if it beeps when you push the Test button.

Smoke detectors are inexpensive and essential.  Make sure the devices in your home are working properly.  Test them at least once per year.