The Bay City Fire Marshall’s office has issued an urgent reminder on social media. Smoke alarms save lives, and having a working one in your home can reduce the risk of dying in a fire by 55%. They don’t require a lot of maintenance, but it’s essential to check them at least once a month and replace batteries once or twice a year, according to the US Fire Administration. So, ensure your smoke alarms are in good working order to protect you and your family.