We regret to inform you that we will be repeating an hour of 2020. Fortunately you will likely sleep through this malicious requirement imposed upon us by Daylight Saving Time. But you will still need to adjust your clocks. Well, except for the oven of course – that’ll finally be correct again.
This twice a year time change is the perfect reminder to also test each of your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. According the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), working smoke alarms save lives, cutting the risk of dying in a home fire in half.
The Washington State Fire Marshal provided these tips for checking your smoke detectors:
- Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, in the hallways outside the bedrooms, and on every floor of the home, including basements.
- Check the manufacture date stamped on the smoke alarm. If more than 10 years old, replace the smoke alarm with a new one.
- For smoke alarms that have replaceable batteries, change the batteries out with new ones.
- Smoke alarms with non-replaceable, 10-year batteries have been designed to remain effective for up to 10 years.
- Test smoke alarms by pressing the test button. Make sure everyone in the home knows the sound of the smoke alarm and how to respond if it goes off.
- Rental housing must also have working smoke alarms. Contact your landlord or property manager if your rental home does not have smoke alarms installed. Maintenance and testing smoke alarms is the responsibility of the tenant.
Take it from someone (me) who has had Carbon monoxide poisoning, it’s not fun. Take the few minutes to check your detectors and change the batteries. These detectors are vital to ensuring the health and safety of those who live in your home.
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