According to the association's latest “Smoke Alarms in the U.S.” report, working smoke alarms reduce the risk of dying in a home fire by more than half (60 percent). The majority of civilian home fire deaths continues to occur in homes with no smoke alarms or no working alarms. Best Smoke AlarmsBattery-Powered Dual-Sensor Smoke Alarm:Hardwired Dual-Sensor Smoke Alarm:Best With Carbon Monoxide Detection:Best Value Smoke Alarm:Best Smart Smoke Alarm:The Expert: Shawn Mahoney P.E. Home, Safe, Home: Best Home Security Systems • Best Outdoor Security Cameras • Best Video Doorbell Cameras • Best Smart Locks for Home or Rental PropertyA photoelectric alarm uses a beam of light. The newest generation of smoke detectors will require all manufacturers to make devices that can distinguish between smoldering fires and cooking smoke.