Crime & Safety

Change Your Smoke Alarm Batteries When Resetting Clocks

Advice from state fire commissioner.

Before you go to bed Sunday night, . But you should also do something else.

On Friday, Pennsylvania State Fire Commissioner Ed Mann reminded residents to change the batteries in their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors this weekend when they turn their clocks back.

“Installing and maintaining smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home is one of the most effective things you can do to keep your family safe,” Mann said in a release. “It’s a small investment of time and money that really does save lives.”

Find out what's happening in Bensalemwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Working smoke alarms cut in half the risk of dying in a home fire. Worn or missing batteries are the most common reason why smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors fail. Changing the batteries at least once a year is one of the simplest, most effective ways to prevent tragic deaths and injuries.

Carbon monoxide is created when combustible materials burn incompletely. Often called “the silent killer,” it is an odorless, colorless, tasteless gas that can kill before victims are even aware they’ve been exposed. Sources include wood-burning fireplaces and stoves, gas-fired appliances, grills, and motor vehicles. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are often mistaken for the flu and include nausea, headaches, dizziness, disorientation and fatigue.

Find out what's happening in Bensalemwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Whether a unit is battery-powered or hardwired, it should be replaced every 8-10 years. Mann suggested writing the purchase date inside the unit before installation.

Mann also urged residents to use the “extra” hour they gain from the time change to test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, planning two ways to escape from each room and practicing escape routes with the entire family. Also, check to make sure flashlights are working and have fresh batteries.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

To request removal of your name from an arrest report, submit these required items to arrestreports@patch.com.