Fire Prevention Week is coming up next week, and Minnesota State Fire Marshal Bruce West wants to know the last time you checked your smoke alarms.

Many people may not even remember. Smoke alarms have become such a common feature of U.S. households that they’re often taken for granted and aren’t tested and maintained according to West.

Data from 776 Minnesota fire departments shows that four people died last year in homes without smoke alarms or in homes with inoperable smoke alarms. These deaths could have been prevented, West said.

West has been a member of the fire service for 35 years. He said he’s seen the devastating effects of fire first-hand. Witnessing a family’s anguish after a loved one has been killed in a fire is heartbreaking, West said.

The Minnesota State Fire Marshal Division and fire officials statewide want to educate the public about the true value of working smoke alarms.

West said he hopes all Minnesota residents participate in their local Fire Prevention Week activities and make sure there are working smoke alarms installed throughout their homes.

Fire Prevention Week is Sunday through Saturday and this year’s theme is “Working Smoke Alarms Save Lives: Test Yours Every Month!” Fire Prevention Week’s website is www.firepreventionweek.org.