(WSIL) -- The Illinois State Fire Marshal is reminding residents of the importance of having approved smoke alarms.
In 2018, there were 105 deaths from fires in homes without smoke alarms.
Illinois law requires smoke alarms approved by a third-party testing organization.
According to the Smoke Detector Act every home and hotel must have at least one approved smoke detector.
Herrin Fire Chief Shawn Priddy says having a smoke alarm is key for a safe fire escape.
"The furnishings that are in residences now are made of synthetic materials. Fires are burning faster and hotter. So the faster that we can detect a fire, the quicker--the better chance somebody has to make it out safely," he said.
He also says each smoke detector must be installed within 15 feet of each bedroom.
If you have questions about installing them, call your local fire station.
