The Lexington Fire Department has made it their mission to reduce home fire deaths by installing free smoke alarms to any home that needs them. It's part of Smoke Alarm Safety Day.

Saturday, firefighters knocked on nearly a thousand doors in downtown neighborhoods.

"We know smoke alarms are very effective in doing what they are made to do, which is to give us early warning to problems in our home," says Lieutenant Jessica Bowman with the Lexington Fire Department.

Mapping and fire data shows the fire department where the greatest need is for smoke alarms.

Just within the past several weeks, the fire department says they have responded to six fires that have started as a result of a fire place.

"So we are really wanting to get the message out that if you haven't done so already, it's important to have your chimney clean and inspected every year by a certified chimney sweep," says Lieutenant Bowman.

Those who received new smoke alarms Saturday say they are thankful for the fire department taking the time to help families make their homes safer.

If you are in need of a smoke alarm or want to make sure the ones in your home are working properly, just call the Lexington Fire Department.