For more than a decade, MySafe:LA has led an unwavering effort to reduce home fire fatalities and injuries by installing life-saving smoke alarms in the homes of Los Angeles residents, particularly in communities facing the highest risk. With more than 100,000 free smoke alarms installed over the past 10 years, MySafe:LA’s commitment to public safety has had a profound and measurable impact on families across the city.
Why Smoke Alarms Matter
Smoke alarms are one of the simplest and most cost-effective tools for protecting against residential fire deaths. A working smoke alarm can cut the risk of dying in a home fire in half. Despite their importance, many homes—especially older ones—are either unequipped or have non-functional alarms due to age, damage, or dead batteries.
The challenge is particularly stark in Los Angeles’ aging housing stock, where many homes were built using outdated construction methods, such as balloon framing—a technique common in the early 20th century. These Craftsman-style homes, while historic and beautiful, allow fires to spread rapidly through walls and ceilings, often before residents even realize there’s a threat.
A Focus on At-Risk Populations
MySafe:LA has prioritized distributing and installing smoke alarms in high-risk communities. That includes homes occupied by older adults who have aged in place, many of whom purchased their homes 30 to 50 years ago. Today, many are living on fixed incomes, and essential home maintenance tasks—including checking or replacing smoke alarms—have become difficult or unaffordable.
The situation has worsened since the pandemic, as the cost of smoke alarms has more than doubled in many cases, creating further financial strain for vulnerable households.
Partnerships and Federal Support
To sustain this critical mission, MySafe:LA has partnered with local fire departments, community organizations, and national agencies. These collaborations have been empowered through the consistent support of FEMA’s Fire Prevention and Safety Grants, awarded to MySafe:LA for each of the past 10 years. These federal grants recognize the program’s proven ability to reach underserved populations and reduce fire-related injuries and deaths.
Through these partnerships, MySafe:LA not only provides free smoke alarms but also educates residents on fire prevention, evacuation planning, and emergency preparedness.
Proven Results and a Vision Forward
The numbers speak volumes: More than 100,000 homes now have working smoke alarms thanks to MySafe:LA. In multiple documented cases, residents were alerted by these alarms in time to escape fires safely. Every alarm represents a safer home, a stronger neighborhood, and a more resilient Los Angeles.
Despite budget pressures and rising costs, MySafe:LA remains committed to this vital work. As long as funding permits, the organization will continue ensuring that no home goes unprotected due to financial hardship or lack of access.
