Vermont law has required smoke detectors (alarms) to be installed in multi-family and rental dwellings for more than 30 years. In spite of these requirements, and the general public’s awareness about the value of smoke alarms, one common factor in most fatal fires is the lack of properly installed, and working, smoke alarms. Fire is fast. More than one smoke alarm is needed in most dwelling units to make sure that people can hear the alarm and have time to escape. Smoke alarms need to be properly installed, maintained and replaced when needed, and the type of smoke alarm is also important.