Change Your Clock, Change Your Smoke Detector Battery on March 8th!

When you adjust your clocks for Daylight Saving Time, take a few minutes to protect your family by checking your home safety devices.

Use this checklist to make sure your home is prepared:

1. Count Your Smoke Alarms

Make sure your home has at least one smoke alarm on every level, inside each bedroom, and outside all sleeping areas. Smoke alarms should be less than 10 years old.

2. Replace Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm Batteries

Fire safety experts recommend changing the batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors at least once each year. Changing them when you change your clocks is an easy way to remember.

3. Test Your Alarms

Press the test button on every alarm after replacing the batteries to confirm they are working properly. Alarms should also be tested monthly. Never remove the battery — a chirping sound means the battery needs to be replaced.

4. Clean Your Alarms

Gently vacuum or wipe alarms to remove dust and cobwebs so they continue to function properly.

5. Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years

Smoke alarms do not last forever. Replace units that are 10 years old or older. Having both photoelectric and ionization alarms provides better protection from different types of fires.

6. Check Your Flashlights

Keep a working flashlight with fresh batteries near each bedside to help you safely exit during an emergency.

7. Involve the Whole Family

Make sure everyone in the household knows what the alarms sound like and what to do when they activate.

For more home fire safety information, visit the National Fire Protection Association at www.nfpa.org.