The FDNY unveiled its largest-ever educational smoke detector campaign Monday. Officials say the push comes after a deadly 2007 fire.

Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta and U.S. Rep. José Serrano announced the "Sound the Alarm" campaign at the Engine Company 68/Ladder Company 49 firehouse, located on Ogden Avenue. Officials say $900,000 will go toward print, radio, television and Internet awareness efforts.

Authorities stress that changing batteries in smoke detectors once a year could mean the difference between life and death. The campaign came about after nine family members died last year in a blaze at their Woodycrest Avenue home.

Serrano helped to secure program funding through a Department of Homeland Security grant.

Related information: