In just more than three months, the lives of three Adams County residents have been claimed in structure fires.

In the last decade, fire deaths have dropped by more than 10 percent across the country. That’s what is so alarming about the high numbers of fire deaths so far in our community.

In many cases early warnings may have prevented the deadly disasters.

Smoke alarms can truly be the difference between life and death when fire breaks out.

Unfortunately, fire prevention and safety is one of those things that we often don’t think about until it’s too late.

Smoke alarms are amazingly effective, when they’re installed properly, have fresh batteries and deployed in a house in sufficient numbers.

Without them the danger of fire deaths is far greater.

National Fire Protection Association research indicates 3 out of 5 fire deaths come in structures that had no working smoke alarm.

Two of the three Adams County fires that resulted in deaths also did not appear to have working smoke alarms in the houses, local fire investigators said.

Smoke alarms are not costly, but for those who cannot afford them, the Natchez Fire Department works with the Adams County Chapter of the American Red Cross to offer assistance.

Often, tragedies such as those that have struck our community can be the catalyst to start a conversation with friends, family and neighbors about prevention. A quick discussion about smoke alarms would only take a few minutes, replacing batteries or installing new alarms would only take a few minutes, but the life-saving results could be enormous.