Bend FD: Check smoke alarms when you ‘fall back’
A working smoke alarm in your home can mean the difference between life and death.
Smoke alarms with batteries that are dead, disconnected, or missing cannot alert you to the dangers of smoke and fire. So, when you turn your clocks back one hour at 2:00 a.m. on Sunday, November 4, test your smoke alarms , and if necessary change the battery.
Since smoke alarm technology had advanced and many now come with features such as long-life batteries, residents are encouraged to test their alarms before changing the batteries. Because of this technology, the national slogan “Change your clock, Change your battery” may not apply to all types of smoke alarms.
Working smoke alarms provide a critical early warning to a fire, allowing you vital minutes to escape, increasing your chances of survival.
To test your smoke alarm properly, the Bend Fire Department recommends:
Push the test button to be sure the battery is working. Vacuum the alarm to rid of dust and cobwebs Inspect your alarm to determine its age. Replace any smoke alarm 10 years or older, as well as any alarm that does not work properly.
Here are some additional safety tips:
Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, in each bedroom and outside each sleeping area. Never disconnect or remove batteries from smoke alarms for other uses. Make a home escape plan and practice it together with your family.
The Bend Fire Department offers free smoke alarms, including installation, to homeowners living in Bend. For more information, contact us at (541) 322-6309.
