Hundreds of Mississippians have lost their life to fire over the last few years. Smoke alarms in good working condition can save lives and property.

Smoke alarms provide an early warning of fire and dangerous smoke, allowing you the opportunity to escape. Smoke alarms will not prevent fires, but they do increase the chance for you to get out safely.

Smoke alarms need to be maintained in order to stay in proper working condition. The new year is a good time to check batteries and test the alarms around your house. Winter and seasonal holidays bring the risk of fire from portable heaters, cooking, careless smoking and the exposure of children to fire sources such as matches.

Those at highest risk of death by fire or smoke are older adults, children younger than five yearsd old and people in substandard housing or mobile homes.

You may be eligible for free smoke alarms. Each year, residents in certain counties where fire-related deaths are frequent can qualify for free smoke alarms through MDH's Fire Prevention program. Contact your county health department for details.