Since 1966, most states have been changing the clocks twice a year in order to save an hour of daylight. Daylight savings time will begin at 2:00 a.m. on Sunday, March 10th. While you’re changing your clocks, Thomasville Fire Rescue wants you to think about an important way to move fire safety forward as well.
“This is a good time to remind everyone that all homes should have working smoke alarms on every floor. You should also have smoke alarms in every bedroom and in the hallway outside of each sleeping area,” says City of Thomasville Fire Chief Chris Bowman. Chief Bowman points out that three out of five home fire deaths result from fires in properties without working smoke alarms. “The risk of dying in a home fire is cut in half in homes with working smoke alarms.”
“Smoke detectors do not last forever and they should be replaced every 10 years, so be sure to check the manufacturer’s dates on your smoke alarms this weekend,” said City of Thomasville Fire Marshall Chief Tim Connell. “Also, check the batteries and test your smoke alarms at least once a month. Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old or if they do not sound when tested. Remember that every bedroom needs a working smoke alarm.”
How do I take care of my smoke alarm?
Is your smoke alarm still working? A smoke alarm with a dead or missing battery is the same as having no smoke alarm at all. A smoke alarm only works when it is properly installed and regularly tested. Take care of your smoke alarms according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Below are some general maintenance tips.
Smoke alarm powered by a nine-volt battery:
- Test the alarm monthly.
- Replace the batteries at least once every year.
- Replace the entire smoke alarm every 10 years.
Smoke alarm powered by a 10-year lithium (or “long-life”) battery:
- Test the alarm monthly.
- Since you cannot (and should not) replace the lithium battery, replace the entire smoke alarm according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Smoke alarm that is hardwired into your home's electrical system:
- Test the alarm monthly.
- Replace the backup battery at least once every year.
- Replace the entire smoke alarm every 10 years.
Thomasville Fire Rescue offers free smoke alarms, free smoke alarm testing and smoke alarm placement for all residents in the City of Thomasville. Please call 229-227-4099 for more information.