Change your smoke alarm batteries when setting clocks back

October 31, 2013 · 0 Comments

Daylight savings ends this weekend, and Caledon Fire and Emergency Services is recommending residents check their electrical and battery operated smoke alarms for operation and install new batteries in their smoke alarms when they change their clocks this weekend.
“In order for smoke alarms to do their job, they need to be operational, ensuring the A/C power source is on and have working batteries,” said Fire Chief Terry Irwin. “Twice annually, old batteries should be replaced with new batteries.”
Smoke alarms can be electrically powered, battery powered or a combination of both. If you are installing an electrically powered alarm, it is recommended that it have a battery back-up in case of power failures. All smoke alarms should be tested monthly, and replaced after 10 years or according to the recommendation from the manufacturer. Electrically powered smoke alarms cannot be replaced with battery powered smoke alarms.
In order to survive a fire, you need to be provided with an early warning and know what to do when the smoke alarms sound. It’s the law to have working smoke alarms on every storey of the home and outside all sleeping areas. For added protection, it is recommended to also install smoke alarms inside all bedrooms.
Irwin also emphasized the importance of developing a home escape plan. You may have only seconds to safely escape your home. Make sure everyone knows two ways out of each room if possible, and discuss a meeting place. Download an escape plan today at www.safeathome.ca
Tampering with or removing batteries from an alarm is against the law. Failure to comply with the Fire Code smoke alarm requirements can result in a ticket for $235 or a fine of up to $50,000.
For more information on smoke alarms, contact Caledon Fire and Emergency Services at 905-584-2272, ext. 4303 or visit www.caledon.ca/fire