Jump Ahead to Smoke Alarm Safety During Daylight Saving Time

Last updated on Friday, March 10, 2017

(INDIANAPOLIS) - Daylight saving time will begin Sunday, March 12 at 2 a.m. Hoosiers are encouraged to incorporate changing their smoke alarm batteries when changing their clocks.

State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson regards this time of year as a reminder to check smoke alarms. Smoke alarm batteries should be changed at least twice a year.

"With so many tragic fire deaths last year, I am renewing my call for all households to have working smoke alarms," said State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson. "Working, properly placed smoke alarms save lives, giving families extra vital seconds to escape a fire in their home."

Reasons to check smoke alarm batteries
According to the National Fire Protection Association:

Three out of five home fire deaths result from fires in properties without working smoke alarms.

The chance of surviving a household fire is doubled in homes with working smoke alarms.

Check the date
Remember to check the smoke alarm device date in addition to checking the batteries. Here are four simple steps to follow:

Remove the smoke alarm from the wall or ceiling.

Look at the back of the alarm for the date of the manufacture.

If the manufacture date is more than 10 years old, it is recommended that the smoke alarm be replaced. Over time sensors lose sensitivity and the ability to detect smoke.

If the alarm is less than 10 years old, change the batteries and return the alarm to its location.

Check the smoke alarm placement

Smoke alarms should be placed inside and outside each bedroom or sleeping area; half of home fire deaths occur during sleeping hours and the early morning. Gases emitted during a fire can cause residents to sleep more deeply.

Consider using interconnected smoke alarms in the home. These notify everyone in the home if smoke is detected.

Check the manufacturer's instructions for information about whether the smoke alarm should be placed high on the wall or on the ceiling.

All clocks should be set forward one hour on Sunday, March 12 at 2 a.m.

For more information about smoke alarms and home fire safety visit GetPrepared.in.gov.

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