Well, it’s that time of the year! Daylight-Savings Time begins at 2 a.m. this Sunday, so, it’s time to ‘spring forward’ our clocks one hour. Not only do we spring our clocks forward, it’s time to change the batteries in our smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors as well.
The American Red Cross gives a few guidelines on both smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms:
•Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.
•Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.
•Once a month check whether each alarm in the home is working properly by pushing the test button.
•Replace batteries in smoke alarms at least once a year. Immediately install a new battery if an alarm chirps, warning the battery is low.
•Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years. Never disable smoke or carbon monoxide alarms.
•Carbon monoxide alarms are not substitutes for smoke alarms. Know the difference between the sound of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms.
Following these installation guidelines and maintaining our alarms could be an actual life saver. By making a plan with your whole family and practicing this plan twice a year, we’re not only showing our love for the members of our family but we’re training up the next generation in the importance of emergency preparedness.
Terri Violet is the Marketing and Communication Liaison Volunteer in the St. Charles County Service Center.