Spring Forward Safely: Change Your Clocks, Practice Fire Safety

With daylight saving time just around the corner, residents are encouraged to take a few minutes to test their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. When clocks move forward one hour on Sunday, March 8, it’s the perfect reminder to make sure every home is protected with properly functioning life-safety devices.

This call to action comes with urgency. Three out of five home fire deaths occur in homes with either no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms. A functioning smoke alarm can mean the difference between life and death by providing the critical early warning needed to escape safely.

Smoke alarms with non-replaceable 10-year batteries are designed to operate for up to 10 years. However, if you hear the alarm chirping, the unit should be replaced immediately. Smoke alarms with replaceable batteries should have their batteries changed at least once a year. Residents should also check the expiration date on their smoke alarms, usually found on the back of the device. Most smoke alarms have a functional lifespan of about 10 years.

Heating and cooking equipment that burn fuel are potential sources of carbon monoxide (CO). It is equally important to check carbon monoxide detectors, as carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly.

Daylight saving time also marks the unofficial start of spring and serves as a good reminder to begin spring cleaning with safety in mind. Accumulated dust and built-up grime in the home aren’t just unsightly; they can also become ignition sources that fuel a fire. Clearing clutter, cleaning around appliances, and removing debris from high-heat areas such as dryer vents and stovetops are meaningful steps toward a safer home.

Additional Fire Safety Tips

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including inside and outside of bedrooms and sleeping areas.

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct battery type listed on the back of the smoke alarm. Using the wrong battery can prevent the alarm from operating properly.

• Install smoke alarms on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep them away from kitchens to reduce nuisance alarms.

• Individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing can use specialized alarms that include strobe lights and bed shakers.

• Choose a carbon monoxide alarm with the label of a recognized testing laboratory and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and mounting height.

• Install CO alarms in a central location outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home. Test alarms at least once a month.

• Practice a two-minute home escape plan and ensure everyone in the household knows two ways out of every room and a safe outdoor meeting place.

• Dust smoke alarms regularly to keep them free of debris that could interfere with operation.

• Keep household appliances and electrical cords free of dust, grease, and debris. Grease buildup on kitchen appliances should be cleaned with a slightly damp cloth.

Taking a few minutes when you change your clocks can help ensure your home remains safe and protected year-round.