Time To Turn The Clocks One Hour Ahead!

It's almost time to spring ahead, which means it's also time to test and replace the batteries in your smoke detectors. Daylight Saving Time starts at 2 a.m. Sunday, March 10.

Is your smoke alarm still working? Smoke alarms must be maintained! A smoke alarm with a dead or missing battery is the same as having no smoke alarm at all.

Tioga Fire Protection and Fire Prevention would like to remind everyone to not only set their clocks ahead this weekend, but to also test your smoke detector batteries and change them if necessary.

A smoke alarm only works when it is properly installed and maintained. Depending on how your smoke alarm is powered (9-volt, 10-year lithium, or hardwired), you’ll have to maintain it according to manufacturer’s instructions.

Tioga Fire Protection and Fire Prevention says even hard-wired smoke alarms should have their batteries replaced and tested monthly.

A working smoke alarm doubles your chance of survival during a fire by giving you the critical time needed to escape.

A lot of fires occur at night while most people are sleeping.

Actually, the smoke and toxic gases from the fire can cause you to fall into a deeper sleep, diminishing the chance of survival.

Tioga Fire Protection and Fire Prevention recommends changing the batteries every six months and testing them monthly.

General guidelines for smoke alarm maintenance:

Smoke alarm powered by a 9-volt battery
•Test the alarm monthly.
•Replace the batteries at least once per year.
•The entire smoke alarm unit should be replaced every 8-10 years.

Smoke alarm powered by a 10-year lithium (or “long life”) battery
•Test the alarm monthly.
•Since you cannot (and should not) replace the lithium battery, the entire smoke alarm unit should be replaced according to manufacturer’s instructions.

Smoke alarm that is hardwired into the home’s electrical system
•Test the alarm monthly.
•The backup battery should be replaced at least once per year.
•The entire smoke alarm unit should be replaced every 8-10 years.

A Sound You Can Live With: Test Your Smoke Detector!



(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)

Daylight Saving Time Is Here!

Ok now, I added an hour last night before going to bed for the arrival of Day Light Savings Time here in up-state New York. Is changing the clock worth all the fuss? Good question for discussion and in the following YouTube video explains what adding that hour all means...

We're only saving $4.00 a year per household by doing the Day Light Saving Time Thing! Wow! Well...the thing is though...I do know checking and test smoke detectors and CO2 alarms and changing their batteries with new/fresh ones is worth it because these early warning systems could and have saved lives!

Fire crews send a safety message: wtnh.com

Now is the time to check your skoke alarms and CO2 detectors. It is encouraged to make sure your smoke detectors and CO2 alarms are operating properly by changing the batteries at least once a year. Like now, change those batteries with new one! The best way to make sure the device is working is to push the “test” button until the alarm sounds. Test monthly throughout the year.

Smoke detectors that are properly installed and maintained play a vital role in reducing fire deaths and injuries. In addition, families should prepare an emergency escape plan to allow all members to practice what they should do and where they should meet outside the home in the event of a fire.

Here are a few more YouTube videos explaining where to install smoke alarms/detectors, as well as how to perform a monthly smoke detector test...

Here are some easy fire safety tips to remember and use throughout the year:

Safety tips provided by FASNY & National Fire Protection Association:

• Test smoke alarms/detectors at least once a month by using detectors’ "test button.”

• Clean the units by vacuuming or dusting in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

• Install new batteries in all smoke alarms/CO detectors at least once a year on the day you change your clocks in the spring and fall.

• Install a smoke alarm and CO detector near sleeping areas, as well on every level of the home, including the basement.

• Do not paint smoke alarm/CO detectors.

• Because smoke rises, alarms should be mounted high on walls or ceilings.

• Smoke alarms/CO detectors should not be installed near a window, door or forced-air register where drafts could interfere with their operation.

• Notify your local fire department when your detector sounds. However, before calling, make sure to identify whether or not the device is simply sounding due to a low battery.

• Read the detector’s packaging and instructions to understand the difference between a true emergency and a simple maintenance issue of a dead battery or an expired detector, as the detector may emit different sounds for each situation.

• If it is a real activation, call 911 and evacuate immediately.

• To avoid potential CO exposure, do not warm a vehicle in an enclosed garage space. During and after a snowstorm, make sure all vents connected to stoves, furnaces, and fireplaces leading outside are clear.

A Sound You Can Live With: Test Your Smoke Detector!

(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)

Time to Turn Back One Hour / Check Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

It is time to reset your clocks! This year, Daylight Savings Time officially ends on Sunday, November 6, 2011 when clocks are set back one hour at 2:00 a.m.

After turning the clocks back one hour, spend part of the hour gained to change the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in the home.

Test those smoke and carbon monoxide detectors also for that monthly test.

In 2010, there were 1,331,500 fires, resulting in 3,120 deaths and 17,720 injuries, according to the U.S. Fire Administration

The USFA notes, "One of the best ways to protect yourself and your family is to have a working smoke alarm that can sound fast for both a fire that has flames, and a smoky fire that has fumes without flames. It is called a ‘Dual Sensor Smoke Alarm.’ A smoke alarm greatly reduces your chances of dying in a fire."

The recommendation is to install the alarms everywhere they are needed and to keep them maintained. At the very least, there should be a smoke detector outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement. Good places for alarms are near dens, living rooms, and family rooms.

As a minimum, one smoke detector is required on each level of the home, including the basement. One smoke detector must be outside the bedrooms. If the home has bedrooms on more than one level, one smoke detector is required outside of each area.

Keep detectors away from windows, doors, or forced air registers.

Detectors should be tested at least monthly, and if you can do so check them weekly by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Replace any smoke detectors in the home that are 8 to 10 years old with new ones. Batteries should be changed twice a year and it has become common practice to do this when we change the clocks to daylight savings time and then back to standard time, which occurs this Nov. 6.

It simple, the only good smoke detector is one that works. BEEP-BEEP-BEEP A Sound You Can Live With! Learn Not To Burn, Be Fire Safe!

(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)

Smoke Detector's Monthly Test !!!

Every month, be it in the beginning OF, the middle of, or toward the end of but at lest once a month "TEST YOUR SMOKE DETECTORS" in the home

Don't let thoughts keep you from doing that monthly test of your early warning of smoke & fire!

For many of us, the nice spring weather that is with us now is a reminder that it is time to work on that spring cleaning checklist.

As we many begin the cleaning and clearing the debris that accumulated over the winter month, it's recommend that all should add home fire safety to their list.

To assist in fire proofing the home during the spring season consider the following fire safety tips:

* Check, clean, TEST your smoke alarm(s).

* Check, clean, TEST your Carbon monoxide alarm(s).

* Check your fire extinguisher.

* Make sure electrical electrical outlets and extension cords are not overloaded.

* Have air conditioning units and other electrical appliances checked by a licensed professional

* Clear your basement and attics from old papers, oily rags and broken furniture.

* Make sure all fire exits or escapes routes that are indicated in your fire escape are clear of any debris and are not blocked off.

* Inspect your charcoal gas grills.

* Spread mulch at least a foot away from the house with a not combustible barrier in between, such as rock.

* Finally, when you are finishing spring cleaning make sure all cleaning products are stored in child safety latched drawers and cabinets with the original labels.

Smoke Detector's & Smoke Alarm's BEEP, BEEP BEEP: A Sound You Can Live With!

(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)

New Training Sites for Firefighters & First Responders

NFPA NEWS RELEASE:

NFPA and Chevrolet launch virtual electric vehicle training for firefighters and first responders

April 27, 2011 — The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Chevrolet andOnStar today announced the launch of its virtual electric vehicle safety training for first responders. The online training — which is hosted by NFPA and can be accessed athttp://evsafetytraining.org/training – features an inside look at the newest technology and safety systems on the all-new 2011 Chevrolet Volt, an electric vehicle with extended-range capabilities that hit the roads last fall.

The collaboration with Chevrolet and OnStar stems from NFPA’s electric vehicle safety training initiative, a result of a $4.4 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy, which supports the growing number of electric vehicles in the United States.

NFPA and Chevrolet/OnStar began collaboration last fall with a national tour that included a series of live training sessions featuring the Chevrolet Volt. The launch of the virtual training is a result of months of research and development between Chevrolet and OnStar training specialists, engineers, firefighters and subject matter experts associated with NFPA. Firefighters and first responders who use the online training will have access to an interactive training session including videos, virtual trainers and a variety of downloadable resources about the technology and inner workings of the Chevrolet Volt.

“We are excited to launch this invaluable training resource with Chevrolet and OnStar,” said Andrew Klock, NFPA’s senior project manager for the program. “With electric vehicles hitting the road across the country, this interactive training gives firefighters and first responders easy access to resources and materials necessary when it comes to the new Chevrolet Volt. This virtual training is an important part of our overall electric vehicle education program, which provides training to firefighters and first responders in a variety of formats to ensure that it’s accessible to all.”

“The launch of this training and our partnership with the NFPA is an important part in reaching firefighters and first responders with information about the Chevrolet Volt,” said Gay Kent, GM director of vehicle safety for Chevrolet. “Our objective with the training is for firefighters and first responders to be as comfortable working around electric vehicles, like the Chevrolet Volt, as they are today with conventional vehicles.”

NFPA is currently conducting its own live pilot training courses in a handful of locations across the country and trainings for all firefighters and first responders will be available nationwide this summer.

For more information and resources about NFPA’s Electric Vehicle Safety Training, visit the website.

About the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) NFPA is a worldwide leader in fire, electrical, building, and life safety. The mission of the international nonprofit organization founded in 1896 is to reduce the worldwide burden of fire and other hazards on the quality of life by providing and advocating consensus codes and standards, research, training, and education.

About NFPA’s Electric Vehicle Safety Training Project NFPA’s Electric Vehicle Safety Training project is a nationwide program to help firefighters and other first responders prepare for the growing number of electric vehicles on the road in the United States. The NFPA project, funded by a $4.4 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy, provides first responders with information they need to most effectively deal with potential emergency situations involving electric vehicles.

About Chevrolet Founded in Detroit in 1911, Chevrolet celebrates its centennial as a global automotive brand with annual sales of about 4.25 million vehicles in more than 120 countries. Chevrolet provides consumers with fuel-efficient, safe and reliable vehicles that deliver high quality, expressive design, spirited performance and value. The Chevrolet portfolio includes iconic performance cars such as Corvette and Camaro; dependable, long-lasting pickups and SUVs such as Silverado and Suburban; and award-winning passenger cars and crossovers such as Spark, Cruze, Malibu, Equinox and Traverse. Chevrolet also offers “gas-friendly to gas-free" solutions including Cruze Eco and Volt. Cruze Eco offers 42 mpg highway while Volt offers 35 miles of electric, gasoline-free driving and an additional 344 miles of extended range. Most new Chevrolet models offer OnStar safety, security and convenience technologies including OnStar Hands-Free Calling, Automatic Crash Response and Stolen Vehicle Slowdown.

(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)

Electric Vehicle / Hybrid Vehicle Safety Training For Emergency Responders

There’s are new types of cars out on the road that firefighters and emergency first responders need to be more aware of when it comes to mitigating the associated hazards involved at the motor vehicle accident (MVA) or incident. It use to be that on a MVA once the fire was out, vehicle stabilized for scene safety, and treatment of victims with injuries someone would disconnect the vehicle battery. Now, disconnecting a car’s battery at an accident scene could cause a very big “OUCH” if it’s done the wrong way.

Last summer, the the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) received a grant to develop a safety training program to help emergency first responders prepare for the growing number of electric vehicles on the road in the United States. The Obama Administration has established a goal of one million electric vehicles in the U.S. by 2015. The NFPA initiative, funded by a $4.4 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy, will include a series of electric vehicle emergency response safety programs available to emergency first responders. The training programs will provide emergency first responders with information they need to most effectively deal with emergency situations involving these alternative-fuel vehicles.

"Alternative-fuel vehicles bring new challenges for emergency first responders,” said Andrew Klock, NFPA’s senior project manager for this initiative. "We are building on NFPA’s long history as a leader in fire safety to provide critical information about the unique characteristics of these vehicles. Our goal is to make sure that first responders have all the information they need to deal with emergency situations involving these vehicles."

The training program will include NFPA-developed classroom training courses, handbooks, simulations, webinars, videos and other computer-based training tools.

“We want to make this training accessible for any emergency first responder,” says Klock.

Firefighters and emergency first responders need to know how to disable the high- and low-voltage systems on these new electric cars which have extra risks posed by their high-voltage batteries and cables. Safety tips on how rescuers should approach a “fully-hybrid” vehicle needs to be gone over, as well as learning where batteries are, where cables are, and where air bags are located at. The proper & SAFE way to disable and cut cables needs to be learns too. In most cases these new electric cars will have symbols and stickers in the vehicle, with a little red symbol of a fire hat letting firefighters and emergency first responders know where to disable it.

“Every auto accident has a different scenario and factors involved. It is crucial for all emergency responders to be equipped with firsthand knowledge of each vehicle on the road,” indicates Ken Willette, manager of NFPA’s Public Fire Protection Division. “Being prepared for every possible circumstance keeps everyone safer.”

HOW TO IDENTIFY A HYBRID VEHICLE

Ø Quickest and easiest way for emergency responders: All hybrid vehicles have badge plates located on the sides and/or rear of the vehicle

A GENERAL HYBRID CAR EMERGENCY PROCEDURE:

Extrication

1) Turn off ignition switch and remove key (if so equipped). This turns off the engine and the motor, which prevents electric current from flowing into the cables from the motor or high-voltage battery, and, turns off power to the airbags and the seatbelt pre-tensioner.

2) After turning off the ignition switch, it is recommended that emergency responders remove the key (if so equipped) so the car cannot be inadvertently restarted. To let everyone at the crash scene know the key is removed, give the key to the I/C, who will make a general announcement regarding the key. At this point, the high-voltage system has been isolated. This improves responder safety in and around the vehicle.

3) The next step is to shut down the 12V electrical system on the hybrid just as we typically do on any conventional vehicle involve din an MVA.

4) Locate the 12V battery. It may or may not be under the hood. In the Toyota Prius it is located inside the driver’s rear wheel well within the trunk. Either disconnect or double cut first the negative and then the positive cable. This disables the high-voltage battery controller, which prevents electric current from flowing into the orange cables and the high-voltage battery.

5) With the ignition key turned off and removed and the 12V battery disabled, the hybrid vehicle is safe to work on for vehicle rescue. High-voltage electricity still exists, but it is isolated to the battery pack, generally in the trunk of cars or under the rear passenger seat in pick-ups.

6) An alternative to disabling the 12V battery is to remove the HEV fuse, generally located in the engine compartment junction box. When in doubt pull all fuses in this box.

7) Stabilize the vehicle. Crib at four points directly under the front and rear pillars. Do not place cribbing under high-voltage power cables, exhaust system or fuel system.

8) At this point conventional rescue techniques may be used, including cutting of door hinges, modified dash roll, steering wheel displacement, etc. However caution must be used at all times to avoid cutting any high or intermediate-voltage lines.

9) Should a hybrid be involved in a rollover, end up on its roof, this may prevent access to the engine compartment and disabling of the 12V battery may not be possible. This poses a serious threat. If access to the 12V battery is not hindered, extrication can be handled as in any conventional vehicle rollover.

10) The removal of the roof of hybrids such as the Toyota Prius may be easily accomplished by opening the hatch to gain access for cutting of the pillars. The hatch will need to be opened manually with pry tools because 12V power is needed to open the hatch.

11) Hybrid identification tags are located in the rear and/or sides of the vehicle. Severe impacts in these areas could destroy or hide the identification tags. You must be sure to look for other hybrid identifications, make sure you are aware of the models on the road, and when in doubt assume the vehicle is a hybrid until proven otherwise.

FIRE

1) A fire involving a hybrid vehicle can be handled by following normal vehicle firefighting procedures. In a typical vehicle fire incident, the engine compartment, interior of vehicle or trunk area are burning. By following generally accepted fire suppression guidelines, crews attack the fire with an adequate water flow rate, working from a safe position of approach.

2) SCBA is worn throughout the incident.

3) The initial fire attack should be a fast and aggressive attack.

4) Fire crews may not be able to identify a hybrid until the fire has been knocked down and overhaul operations have commenced.

5) The wheels should be chocked as soon as safely possible.

6) During overhaul, the same steps defined in the extrication module should be used to disable the high-voltage system. (shut down power, disable 12V system)

7) Fire suppression crews will not be shocked or electrocuted during attack on a hybrid vehicle fire, even if flames are impinging on the battery pack itself.

8) There are potential, unique problems involving fire situations with hybrid vehicles. Any fire where there is direct flame impingement on the high-voltage battery pack would be an example. A fire that has originated within the battery pack itself or an electrical fire that begins somewhere within the high-voltage electrical system would also require special precautions.

9) Radiant heat could cause the modules inside the high-voltage battery to melt just as any plastic material would exposed to high temperatures. If heated sufficiently, it is possible the plastic casings could melt down, exposing the inner components of the high-voltage battery.

10) Copious amounts of water should be used quickly to eliminate radiant heat to the battery box and begin cooling the plastic battery cell modules in the high-voltage battery pack itself.

11) Should a fire in the Ni-MH HV battery pack occur, the I/C will have to decide whether to pursue an offensive or defensive.

12) If a melted nickel metal hydride (Ni-MH) battery is encountered, the I/C may want the nearest dealer of the vehicle notified to send a designated battery recovery specialist to the scene to deal with the damaged battery.

13) In the Ni-MH Product Safety Data Sheet, responders are advised that virtually all fires involving Ni-MH batteries can be controlled with water. The information sheet also recommends “In case of fire where nickel metal batteries are present, apply a smothering agent such as METL-X, sand, dry ground dolomite, soda ash, or flood the area with water. A smothering agent will extinguish burning nickel metal hydride batteries.”

14) Class D extinguishers are the recommended extinguisher to use with Ni-MH batteries. But…….

15) Not all Class D extinguishers are equal. Some contain particles of metal such as copper. Copper, for example, is one metal that may actually cause an adverse reaction with the high-voltage battery and generate hydrogen gas. In a small space, such as a trunk, this could cause an explosion.

16) Large amounts of water will not be able to directly attack a fire burning inside the battery pack unit itself. The metal cover of the pack prevents a direct attack on the internal cells of the battery. The water application, however, will cool the adjacent battery cells. Burning Ni-MH batteries will burn themselves out. Applying sufficient amounts of water will cool the metal housing of the battery pack and control the fire until the battery modules that are actually on fire burn themselves out. DO NOT EVER REMOVE THE COVER OF THE HIGH-VOLTAGE BATTERY PACK!

17) When water is used to extinguish Ni-MH battery fires, some hydrogen gas may evolve. In this situation ventilation will be needed to prevent a build up of the gas. Leaving the trunk, hatchback or battery compartment cover open is advised to ensure ventilation of the gas. If there is a concern that hydrogen gas is present, and ventilation is not possible, fire smothering agents are recommended.

18) A battery fire WILL produce toxic fumes, including oxides of nickel cobalt, aluminum, manganese, lanthanum, cerium, neodymium and praseodymium. Because of this, SCBA must be worn throughout the fire attack and during overhaul.

19) In addition, keep the “hot zone” clear of unnecessary personnel. Keep all “hot zone” personnel fully protected with structural clothing that addresses Level 3 hazmat personal protective clothing criteria and SCBA.

STEPS TO SECRURING HYBRID VEHICLE

1. Chock wheels

2. Remove/Find Key

3. Give key to I/C

4. I/C makes general announcement regarding key

5. Locate power button/Shut off power

6. Engage emergency brake

7. Cut negative 12V cable

8. Cut positive 12V cable

9. Do not touch or cut any orange or blue loom!

10. Wait 5 minutes before making any cuts for extrication!

For more information and resources about NFPA’s Electrical Vehicle Safety Training Program for U.S. emergency responders visit www.evsafetytraining.org.

About NFPA’s Electric Vehicle Safety Training Project
NFPA’s Electric Vehicle Safety Training project is a nationwide program to help firefighters and other first responders prepare for the growing number of electric vehicles on the road in the United States. The NFPA project, funded by a $4.4 million American Recovery and Reinvestment Act grant from the U.S. Department of Energy, provides first responders with information they need to most effectively deal with potential emergency situations involving electric vehicles. Visit the Electric Vehicle Safety Training project website.

(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)

Smoke Alarms… What You Need To Know

A reminder to check batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors when turning back the clocks this Saturday in observance of Daylight Saving Time.

PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR FAMILY TODAY

In the event of a fire, properly install and maintained smoke alarms will provide an early warning alarm to your household. This alarm could save your own life and knows both your loved ones by providing the chance to escape.

***Your Smoke Alarm Quiz***

The Smoke Alarms In My Home:

Are installed on every level especially near sleeping areas?

Are tested once a month?

Have their batteries replaced with new ones at least once a year? We recommend that you change your batteries when you set your clocks in the Spring and again in the Fall.

Are vacuum over and kept free of dust?

Have their batteries replaced and are retested, should they start making a “chirping noise?”

Are replaced with new smoke alarms smoke alarms every 10 years?

DID YOU ANSWER “NO” TO ANY OF THE QUESTIONS?

If so, keep reading to learn answers to most common questions about life-saving smoke alarms.

WHY SHOULD MY HOME HAVE SMOKE ALARMS?

In the event of a fire, a smoke alarm can save your life and those of your loved ones. They are the single most important means of preventing house and apartment fire fatalities by providing an early warning signal -- so you and your family can escape. Smoke alarms are one of the best features you can buy and install to protect yourself, your family, and your home.

OKAY, WHERE DO I PUT THEM?

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement. Many fatal fires begin late at night or in the early morning. For extra safety, install smoke alarms both inside and outside sleeping areas.

Also, smoke alarm should be installed at ceilings or above eye level on the walls. Since smoke and many deadly gases rise, install your smoke alarms at the proper level will provide with the earliest warning possible. Always follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

WHERE WOULD I GET SMOKE ALARMS?

Many hardware stores, home supply, or general merchandise stores carry smoke alarms. If you are unsure where to buy one in your community, call your local fire department (on a non-emergency telephone number) and they will provide you with some suggestions.

ARE SMOKE ALARMS HARD TO INSTALL?

Not a bit. In most cases all you need is a screwdriver. Many brands are self-adhesive and will automatically stick to the wall or ceiling where their placed. However, be sure to follow the directions from manufacture because each brand is different. If you're uncomfortable standing on a ladder, ask a relative or friend to for help.

HOW DO I KEEP MY SMOKE ALARM WORKING?

Smoke alarms are very easy to take care of. There are two steps to remember:

Simply replace the batteries twice a year. Tip: Change the batteries when you set your clocks in the Spring and in the Fall. Some smoke alarms on the market come with a ten-year battery. These alarms are designed to be replaced as a whole unit, thus avoiding the need for better replacement. If your smoke alarm starts making a “chirping” noise, replaced the batteries and retest it.

Keep them clean. Dust and debris can interfere with their operation, so vacuum over and around your smoke alarm regularly.

WHAT IF THE ALARM GOES OFF WHEN I’M COOKING?

Then it's doing its job, do not disable your smoke alarm if it alarm due to cooking or other non-fire causes. You may not remember to put the batteries back in the alarm after cooking. Instead clear the air by waving a towel near the alarm, leaving the batteries in place. The alarm may have to be moved to a new location.

HOW LONG WILL MY SMOKE ALARM LAST?

About eight-to-ten years, after which they should be replaced. Like most electronic devices smoke alarms wear out. You may want to write to purchase date on with a marker on the inside of you unit. That way, you'll know when to replace it. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for replacement.

ANYTHING ELSE I SHOULD KNOW?

Some smoke alarms are considered to be “hard wired.” This means they are connected to the household electrical system and may or may not have battery back-ups. It's important to test every smoke alarm monthly. And always use new batteries when replacing old ones.

For More Information On this Subject and Other Related Subjects Go To The United States Fire Administration.

(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)

Time To Change Smoke Detector Batteries....

Once again it is time to change the batteries in your home smoke alarms. 70 percent of fire deaths come from homes without a working smoke alarm. In the Spring we Spring forward and then in the Fall we Fall back by turning the clocks back one hour. In either case it's a time to ensure the smoke alarms have the necessary power and are all in working order. Change out all batteries with fresh brand new batteries.

Here's a YouTube video showing you a very good view of how simple with little effort it is to change the smoke detector battery:

REMEMBER smoke detectors/alarms do have expiration dates also and should be replaced with new ones after ten years of use. Check the backside of the smoke detector when changing the batteries and there should be a year of expiration for the unit.

ALSO REMEMBER to test smoke detectors/alarms each month.

For some great additional information concerning smoke detectors/alarms please visit the

U.S. Fire Administration web site. Go over the information with family members so all are informed of the importance of having these early warning devices in the home.

Stay Fire Smart! Don't Get Burned!

Smoke Alarms: A Sound You Can Live With. Where There's Smoke, There Should Be a Smoke Alarm!

(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; This is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)