Dunkirk Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association — the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for more than 100 years – to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Smoke alarms: Make them work for you!”

The campaign works to educate residents about the importance of having smoke alarms in the home.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, smoke alarms reduce the risk of dying in a home fire by more than 54%. Meanwhile, roughly three of out five deaths happen in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.

“Smoke alarms serve as the first line of defense in a home fire, but they need to be working in order to protect people, said Lorraine Carli, vice president of outreach and advocacy at the National Fire Protection Association.

Dunkirk Fire Department encourages all residents to actively support the smoke alarms campaign. “Working smoke alarms can make a life-saving difference in a home fire, giving people the time to get out safely,” said Chief Mike Edwards.

The city department offers these key tips and guidelines:

— Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area — such as a hallway — and on each level, including the basement, of the home.

— Make sure smoke alarms meet the needs of all family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities.

— Test smoke alarms at least once a month by pushing the test button.

— Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.

Dunkirk Fire Department will be hosting an event in support of this year’s campaign, including the citywide smoke alarm test and fire drill. All residents are encouraged to test their alarms and have a drill at their residence at 7 p.m. Wednesday.

For more information, call the city department at 716-366-2577 or visit fpw.org.