Time Change Means It’s Time to Change Batteries

As Pasadenans prepare to change the time on their clocks to Daylight Savings Time this Sunday, March 8  — turning them forward at 2 a.m. by one hour to 3 a.m — the Pasadena Fire Department reminds everyone to also change all of the batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.

Old smoke alarm batteries should be replaced with fresh high-quality batteries to keep the alarms ready to protect you all year long.

After inserting fresh batteries in your smoke alarm, make sure the alarm is working by activating the safety test button. The fire department recommends testing your smoke alarms at least once a month. If you have any doubts regarding the working condition of a smoke alarm, replace it. It’s recommended that smoke alarms should be replaced with new devices every 10 years.

Also, make sure your emergency flashlights work when you need them by using fresh batteries.

When properly installed, working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors can mean the difference between life and death. The fire department recommends that a properly functioning smoke alarm should be placed in every bedroom and in the hallway directly adjacent to bedrooms. If the rooms are on an upper level, a smoke alarm should be installed in the center of the ceiling directly above the interior stairway.

Smoke alarms should also be cleaned at least once a month, using a vacuum cleaner to remove dust and cobwebs. If your smoke alarms have been accidentally painted or contaminated, you may need to replace them.

Parents should make sure children are familiar with your home escape plans so they don’t get confused when a fire erupts. The fire department recommends practicing your escape plan with your children, making sure they recognize the sound of the smoke alarms in your home and respond instinctively to its signal. Homeowners are advised to create at least two different escape routes from every room and to practice them with the entire family.