Remember this Sunday 'Change Your Clocks - Change Your Batteries'

North Bay Fire & Emergency Services
News Release

********************

North Bay Fire & Emergency Services reminds citizens that this weekend when you “Change your Clocks – Change your Batteries.” The message is simple and the habit could be life saving.


Most fatal fires occur at night when people are asleep. Often the victims never wake up. Changing smoke alarm batteries twice a year, testing these alarms and reminding others to do the same are some of the simplest, most effective ways to reduce these tragic deaths and injuries.


“Working smoke alarms provide an early warning and critical extra seconds to escape,” said Public Education Officer Sheri Korn. “This is particularly important for those most at risk in a home fire, such as children and seniors.”


Working smoke alarms can increase your chances of surviving a fire by up to 50%. And don’t forget the batteries in your carbon monoxide alarms!


While you are changing the batteries, please take a moment to check the age of every alarm in your home. Look for a manufacturing date on the back or the side of the alarm. If any smoke alarms (battery operated or hardwired) are over 10 years old, or if the unit is so old its age cannot accurately be determined – replace them immediately!


Like smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms also wear out. They need to be replaced according to manufacturer instructions or every 7 years.


Remember, on Sunday March 10th, when you Change Your Clocks - Change Your Batteries and practice your home fire escape plan.

********************