Working smoke alarms save lives by alerting occupants to fires early. According to statistics from the Orange County Fire Authority, over 400 homes that experienced fires between 2004-2008 had no working smoke alarms, while 129 additional homes had smoke alarms that failed to activate. California law requires residential units to have smoke alarms, with newer units requiring electrical wired devices. Property managers should ensure smoke alarm systems are properly maintained and tested regularly to help protect tenants from fire.