The fire department has asked that residents be reminded that smoke detectors are required in all one- and two-family residences.

Smoke detectors come in an assortment of models, including types that can be plugged in to wall outlets or a home's electrical system and others that are battery operated. While all are worthwhile, residents are cautioned to purchase only those detectors which have been approved by testing laboratories such as Underwriters Laboratory (U.L.). These devices can be purchased from hardware and department stores.

For minimum protection, a smoke detector should be installed outside of each bedroom or sleeping area with at least one detector on every level of your home. For maximum protection, sleep with doors closed and install a detector in each bedroom or sleeping area.

It is essential that smoke detectors be installed, tested and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. In the event that you have any questions with regard to the selection or placement of a smoke detector, please feel free to contact the Garden City Fire Department at 746-1301 as they will be pleased to assist you.

In an effort to continue to reduce auto accidents, injuries and fatalities at grade crossings, the MTA has reminded us of the following simple but critical safety rules at railroad grade crossings:

• Always stop and wait when crossing gates are down and red lights are flashing. Proceed only when the gates are up and the lights have stopped flashing.

• Remember trains may be moving on any track in any direction at any time. When one train passes through a crossing, a second may be approaching.

• Be especially careful at night and during poor weather.

• Cross tracks only at designated crossings and never in front of or behind a waiting train.

• If your view is blocked or limited at a crossing, reduce speed, check conditions and proceed with caution.

• It is against state law for any person to drive through, around or under any crossing gate or barrier at a railroad crossing while such gate or barrier is closed or being opened or closed. Significant penalties can be imposed.

• Pedestrians must also stop when the gates are down.

The Long Island Rail Road offers a series of free safety education programs. For more information about the T.R.A.C.K.S. (Together Railroads And Communities Keeping Safe) program, please call 1-(718) 558-3028.