Jamie McIntyre, Community Risk Reduction Manager, 509-435-7058
Monday, March 15, 2021 at 9:24 a.m.
On Sunday, March 14th, 2021 we will again be springing forward. Spokane Fire Department reminds community members to check their smoke and CO alarms when we spring forward this Sunday.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, working smoke alarms significantly increase the likelihood of surviving a house fire. For this reason, for years fire departments across the country have encouraged people to change the batteries in their smoke alarms when they change their clocks twice a year. But now the message is a little different.
Why the change from “change your batteries” to “check your alarms”?
Over the years, power sources in smoke alarms have changed. Today’s smoke alarms are not all designed the same, making battery messaging a little different.
Smoke alarms with lifelong batteries are designed for the power source in the alarm to last for the lifetime of the smoke alarm; up to 10 years. If the alarm chirps, warning that the battery is low, replace the entire smoke alarm right away.
Smoke alarms with any other type of battery need a new battery at least once a year. If that alarm chirps, warning the battery is low, replace the battery right away.
Remember to check the power source in your CO alarms while you are at it. Batteries should be changed at least once a year, or if the alarm doesn’t activate when the test button is pushed. CO alarms are good for up to 7 years.
To learn more visit: Changing clocks and smoke alarm batteries | NFPA
