By Noelani Mathews | WCTV Eyewitness News

VALDOSTA – The Valdosta Fire Department is teaming up with local Red Cross volunteers for their Smoke Detector Blitz campaign.

On Saturday, firefighters and volunteers are walking door-to-door on Perry Lane and Page Drive.

It’s part of an ongoing effort to lower the rate of fire deaths in the area.

The VFD says people assume their smoke detectors still work.

However, on Saturday, they’ll be checking to see how many of the life-saving tools are still doing their job.

If not, a firefighter will install a new one that’s donated by the American Red Cross.

Officials say it’s a way to make sure everyone’s home is protected, just in case tragedy strikes.

“If we are proactive ahead of the game, our citizens are educated, they’re aware of the hazards that may occur, and that’ll cut down on our cost and the injuries from burns and fire deaths,” says Capt. James Clinkscales, with the Valdosta Fire Department.

He says most deaths in the area have been caused by unattended cooking.

That’s why they also say everyone needs a fire escape plan.

After checking smoke detectors, they’ll also educate people about ways to survive a house fire.

The event will start Saturday morning and run until 2 p.m. on Perry Lane and Page Drive.

VFD says they try to check smoke detectors around the area twice a year.