Stamford fire officials are crediting smoke detectors with saving lives in a recent early morning fire, and in light of the outcome, reminding the community about the department's free smoke detector program.

Just after 2 a.m. Wednesday, a fire began on the first floor of a home on Hardesty Road as the family inside slept. When crews arrived, the flames had spread to the second floor—where the bedrooms are—and the attic, likely blocking any escape, according to Chief Rex Morris.

"Very heavy damage to the house, but there were no injuries because the smoke detectors actually woke the family up, allowed them to get out safely," Morris told News 12. "And also, a very important factor was, it notified the fire department."

Morris said working smoke detectors made all the difference and gave the family precious time to escape.

That early warning can be the difference between life and death, which is why the fire department offers free smoke detectors and installation to city residents.

"That's a program we've been pushing very hard in the city for about two years now, and we want everyone to take advantage of it," Morris explained. "We will install smoke detectors in your home or your apartment if you notify us."

Morris said since the effort started, the department still responds to plenty of fires where there aren't smoke detectors, but the numbers have gone down. This time of year, with the weather turning cooler, he's reminding people to make sure their smoke detectors work.

Those in need of smoke detectors can go to www.stamfordfire.com, click on "Contact" in the main menu, and select "Smoke Detector Installation," or call the Public Information Hotline at 203-977-5500 to schedule a free installation appointment.

"They're good smoke detectors. They're ten-year batteries, and they also are CO detectors, so they're quality. And we'll put them in properly for you," Morris said.