Change Your Clocks Change Your Batteries

Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are two of the most important safety items in your home. Because of this, it is extremely important that these devices be maintained properly.

The Alaska Fire Department and Taylored Restoration want to remind you that the beginning of daylight savings time is not only a great time to enjoy an extra hour of sunlight in the evenings, but it’s also a great time to change the batteries in your fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.

Why should you change batteries when you change your clocks? The batteries in carbon monoxide alarms and smoke detectors should be changed twice per year, and change your clocks on Sunday, March 12th is a great time to do it. Moving forward, mark your calendar with the dates your batteries were changed last and the date the next battery change is due.

Changing the batteries alone is not enough to properly maintain your alarms and detectors. They should also be tested once per month to make sure they are still in good working condition. While the batteries are out, why not clean the detector itself? Just be sure to follow your manufacturer’s instructions, as most involve generally involve using a vacuum cleaner to remove built-up dust particles.

In addition to regular maintenance, smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors should also be replaced every 10 years. With these tips, you’ll increase your chances of preventing life-threatening injuries and damaging fires. Stay safe everyone and enjoy that extra hour of daylight!