Clocks will spring ahead one hour on March 11 and the Chatham-Kent Fire & Emergency Services is reminding residents it’s time to install new batteries in their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
“At least once a year, old batteries should be replaced with new batteries,” explains Whitney Burk, public educator. “In order for your home to be protected from smoke and carbon monoxide, your alarms need to be working.”
CKFES is also recommending checking the date of your alarms. Both battery operated and hardwired alarms expire. Alarms over 10 years must to be replaced.
“Home safety is at the core of everything we do and we want to make sure our community is protected,” says Assistant Chief Chris Case. “An outdated alarm may take longer to detect smoke, giving you less time to escape your home safely in the event of a fire.”
Working smoke alarms are required on every storey of the home and outside all sleeping areas. Carbon monoxide alarms must be installed outside all sleeping areas if your home has a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace or attached garage.
Need help with your alarms? Request a CHiRP Home Fire Safety Check by calling us at 519-360-1998 or visiting www.ckfes.ca.
