PEORIA ( 25News Now ) - The Peoria Fire Department is urging residents to make sure their smoke alarms are in working order as the winter months begin.

The National Fire Protection Association said that once a house fire starts, residents inside have approximately six minutes to leave their house before the situation becomes dangerous.

Having a working smoke alarm to detect fires is crucial so residents can escape their houses before disaster strikes.

Peoria Fire Chief Sean Sollberger said that around 70% of residents in Illinois do not have a working smoke alarm installed.

Residents who want to get a smoke alarm installed can contact the Peoria Fire Department or fill out a form here.

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