Don't forget to Change Your Clock, Change Your Batteries on November 2nd!

Use this checklist to be sure you’re taking the right steps to protect your family:

1. Count Your Smoke Alarms

Make sure there is at least one smoke alarm less than ten years old on every level of your home, including inside each bedroom and outside each sleeping area.

2. Change Your Smoke Alarm and Carbon Monoxide Detector Batteries

The International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) and fire experts nationwide recommend changing smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector batteries annually. A simple reminder: change the batteries when you change your clocks.

3. Check Your Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

After inserting fresh batteries, press the test button on each alarm to ensure it’s working properly. Test monthly, and never disconnect the battery. Remember: a chirping alarm signals a low battery.

4. Clean Your Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Maintain sensitivity by gently cleaning alarms and detectors each month to remove dust and cobwebs.

5. Replace Your Smoke Alarms

The IAFC recommends replacing smoke alarms every 10 years and installing both ionization and photoelectric alarms for the best protection against all types of home fires.

6. Change Your Flashlight Batteries

Keep flashlights with fresh batteries at each bedside to light your way out or signal for help during an emergency.

7. Get the Whole Family Involved

Ensure all family members—especially children—know what the alarms sound like and what to do if one goes off.

Source: Fire statistics from the NFPA’s Fire Analysis and Research Division (www.nfpa.org). Information courtesy of Energizer.