Firefighters found Figueroa's body in an upstairs bathroom. In the investigation which followed, it was found that one of the tenants may have removed the batteries from several of the smoke detectors in the house. While there is no way of knowing if the presence of functioning smoke detectors would have allowed for Figueroa's rescue, smoke detectors do save lives. It's very easy to do. Most smoke detectors have a small button, usually in the center of the outside cover.
Most smoke detectors use a nine-volt battery.
Even if the battery is functioning, it is recommended that they be checked every six months. The IGSO would like to thank all those people who came forward to assist them in this effort. The funds collected were sent to the local office of the American Red Cross, earmarked for the relief effort. Many students have the good fortune to be traveling over Spring Break. ISSS reminds all international students to be sure their travel documents are in order before departing Binghamton.