There is a fire somewhere in the U.S. every 80 seconds. Early detection is the key to survival. Because fire can grow and spread so quickly, having working smoke alarms in your home can mean the difference between life and death.

Keep your smoke alarms working properly. The National Fire Protection Association and the San Antonio Fire Department recommends that you:

• Test your smoke alarms at least once a month, following the manufacturer's instructions.

• Replace the batteries in your smoke alarm twice a year, or as soon as the alarm "chirps," warning that the battery is low.

• Never "borrow" a battery from a smoke alarm. Smoke alarms can't warn you of a fire if their batteries are missing or have been disconnected.

• Don't disable smoke alarms even temporarily – you may forget to replace the battery. If your smoke alarm is sounding "nuisance alarms," it may need dusting or vacuuming. If that doesn't work, try relocating it further away from kitchens and bathrooms, where cooking fumes and steam can cause the alarm to sound.

• Regular vacuuming or dusting your smoke alarms following manufacturer's instructions can help keep it working properly.

• Smoke alarms don't last forever. Replace your smoke alarms once every 10 years, or according to manufacturer, which ever is sooner.

• Make sure that everyone in your home can identify and awaken to the sound of the alarm.

• Plan regular fire drills (twice a year is best) to ensure that everyone knows exactly what to do when the smoke alarm sounds. Hold a drill at night to make sure that sleeping family members awaken at the sound of the alarm.