Fire is one of the most dangerous causes of injury to children in the home. Most fatal home fires happen at night when everyone is asleep. When you are asleep or you become confused from toxic gases fire produces, you may not even know you're in danger. A smoke detector can sound an alarm to alert you in time to escape. Smoke detectors save so many lives that most states have laws that require them in private homes.

Several kinds of smoke detectors are available at hardware, department and discount stores. Some run on batteries and others on electricity. All approved smoke detectors do a good job of protecting your family if they are installed and cared for properly. Buy detectors labeled by an independent testing laboratory, such as UL (Underwriter's Laboratory) and follow the package instructions carefully. Packaged fire detection systems can cost $300 or more, but you can buy single detectors for between $9 and $30.

For minimum protection, install a smoke detector outside each bedroom area and on each level of the house. Because smoke rises, mount the smoke detector on a wall or ceiling (4 inches from any wall and 4 to 12 inches from the ceiling).

Change the batteries in your smoke detector(s) at least twice a year. When you change your clock for daylight savings time each spring and fall is a great time to do this. Be sure to use the right kind of batteries. When the batteries get low, the detector may chirp or sound a false alarm. Never borrow your smoke detector batteries for another use. Vacuum your smoke detector(s) once a year to keep them clean and working properly. Never paint the smoke detector.

For more protection, have an escape plan for your family. Practice it!

See the Safety Alert “Playing Games with Flames.”