NEVADA – Reno’s local Disaster Action Team is urging residents to check their smoke alarms after a fire displaced families from an apartment earlier this week.

The Red Cross of Northern Nevada is offering free smoke alarm installation and fire safety education to community members. To request a free installation, contact the Northern Nevada chapter at 775-954-1185 or on its website. Be sure to leave your name, address, zip code, and phone number.

Smoke alarms are installed by Red Cross volunteers who will also customize evacuation plans and share education information during the visit.

Last year, the Red Cross says volunteers installed more than 400 free smoke alarms in homes throughout Northern Nevada while delivering home fire safety information across the state.

According to the Red Cross of Northern Nevada, a working smoke alarm in your home can reduce the risk of death in a fire by 50%.

Residents should check their smoke alarms every month to make sure they are working properly. Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years.

Here are some additional tips for fire safety:

• Have a working smoke alarm on every level of your home, including the basement and attic.
• Test your smoke alarms every month by pressing the test button.
• Replace your smoke alarms every 10 years.
• Create and practice a fire escape plan with your family.
• Keep a fire extinguisher in your home and know how to use it.
• Never smoke in bed.
• Keep flammable materials away from heat sources.

If you see a fire, call 911 immediately.

Credits: 2News