TURN BACK THE CLOCK, AND CHANGE THAT SMOKE DETECTOR

From the Maplewood Fire Department:

On Sunday, Nov. 6, we will be changing our clocks back to standard time. The Maplewood Fire Department reminds residents as they change their clocks back to also change the batteries in their smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors.

“Time is your enemy in a fire and working smoke alarms give you precious time to use your home escape plan before poisonous gases and heat make escape impossible,” said Fire Chief Michael Dingelstedt.  The National Fire Protection Association reports that 71% of smoke alarms which failed to operate had missing, disconnected or dead batteries. This reinforces how important it is to take this time each year to check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. The Maplewood Fire Department would like to remind you of the importance of batteries not only in smoke alarms, but also in carbon monoxide alarms to keep us safe, secure and comfortable in our homes.

After inserting a fresh battery in each smoke and carbon monoxide alarm, push the safety test button to make sure the alarms are in proper-working condition.  Conduct this test monthly.  Never disconnect your smoke alarm battery!  Remember that a “chirping” alarm is a signal it needs a fresh battery.