By: Beth Reiss, Communications Director, Mississippi Insurance Department
The Mississippi Insurance Department (MID) Fire Services Division has been awarded a $500,000 grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to continue its statewide Free Smoke Alarm Installation Program.
The funding will provide approximately 40,000 long-life, 10-year lithium battery smoke alarms to be installed in homes across Mississippi – at no cost to residents.
The initiative, titled “Smoke Alarm Installations: Door-to-Door with Home Safety Inspection,” also includes in-home fire prevention education and home escape planning. During installation visits, firefighters will share escape-planning tips and distribute 30,000 educational brochures focused on smoke alarms, cooking safety, and general fire prevention.
“Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in a home fire by more than half,” said State Fire Marshal and Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney. “The smoke alarms we’re buying with this grant will be installed by local firefighters and volunteers, coordinated through county fire coordinators. It’s a tremendous opportunity to educate Mississippians about fire safety. I encourage everyone to check their smoke alarm, create an escape plan, and make sure everyone knows where to meet outside the home in case of fire. Have children draw an escape plan showing how everyone will get out and where exits are located.”
The MID Fire Services Division and State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO) also remind residents to check their smoke alarms as clocks are set back for Standard Time on Sunday.
So far in 2025, 58 fire deaths have been reported statewide; in at least 27 of those cases, no working smoke alarms were found. In 2024, 35 of 73 fire deaths occurred in homes without working alarms.
“Every home should have a working smoke alarm. This grant helps us continue saving lives by reaching thousands of Mississippians who might otherwise go without this basic protection,” said Reed Abraham, State Fire Coordinator.
Fire Services Division and SFMO Safety Tips:
- Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.
- Replace alarms immediately if they do not respond properly.
- Replace all smoke alarms every 10 years.
- Install alarms on walls or ceilings in every sleeping area, hallway, and on every level of the home.
- Carbon monoxide alarms are also encouraged throughout the home and should be placed low to the ground.
- Make sure everyone recognizes the alarm sound and knows how to respond.
- Once outside during a fire, call 911 and never re-enter the home.
Residents can contact their local fire department or county fire coordinator to request installation through the Free Smoke Alarm Installation Program.