Sunday, March 8th marks the beginning of Daylight Saving Time. This is the perfect time to check the smoke alarms throughout your home. Approximately two-thirds of all home fire related deaths occur in homes without working smoke alarms. Working smoke alarms increase the chance of surviving a home fire by 50%.
• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, in the hallways leading to bedrooms and on each level of your home including the basement.
• Do not install near windows or vents.
• Smoke alarms with non-replaceable (long-life) batteries are designed to remain effective for up to 10 years. If the alarm chirps, warning that the battery is low, replace the entire smoke alarm right away.
• For smoke alarms with any other type of battery, replace batteries at least once per year. If the alarm chirps, replace only the battery.
• Test your smoke alarm every month by simply holding down the test button.
• Never paint over smoke alarms and routinely clean them from dust and cobwebs.
Remember, EVERY DAY a smoke alarm saves somebody’s life.