WSB-TV is teaming up with local fire departments, Kidde, The Home Depot and attorney Ken Nugent for the 2016 Operation Save a Life fire safety awareness campaign. Five thousand smoke detectors donated by Kidde are now available in the Atlanta area for viewers who can't afford to buy them.

Nearly 80 firefighters representing 40 area fire departments attended a kick-off event at the WSB-TV studios in Midtown Atlanta Thursday.

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“The time to escape a home fire in the last two decades went from 18 minutes down to three minutes," said Chief Stephen Hrustich from Gwinnett County. "That’s from when that fire starts so having early warning notification through working smoke alarms is so important for folks in our communities.”

To obtain a free smoke detector, contact a fire department in any of these participating counties  and firefighters will install the smoke detectors for free.

What is Operation Save a Life? 

In home fires, early warning is critical, so don’t wait until it’s too late.

Smoke alarms are one of the best and least expensive ways to provide early warning when a fire begins. When properly installed and maintained, smoke alarms can help prevent injuries and minimize property damage. And when you look at the facts, it’s clear that, in many cases, they mean the difference between life and death.

  • Nearly half of the nation's fire deaths occur in the four percent of homes that do not have smoke alarms. (NFPA)
  • The risk of dying in homes without smoke alarms is twice as high as it is in homes that have working smoke alarms. (Consumer Product Safety Commission)
  • To help ensure that your home is protected, take a few minutes to read about types of smoke alarms and tips for proper performance.

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Save a Life Saturday held at The Home Depot 

Save a Life Saturday events were held on Dec. 3, 2016 at more than 30 selected The Home Depot stores. The Home Depot team of experts were on hand to answer safety questions from shoppers and provide information about Kidde smoke and CO alarms.

Facts: Fire Safety Laws & Legislation

Do you know the fire safety laws in your state? You will now. Some states require carbon monoxide detectors in all homes. Some require both smoke alarms and CO detectors. And a few of them require other safety products. No matter where you live, it's important to know the latest fire and CO safety laws and legislation in your state. Knowing the rules can ensure avoidance of any fines or penalties. And more importantly, it can save lives.