Spring Forward Into Safety on Daylight Savings Time

Spring forward into fresh new habits to keep your home safer. As you change your clocks forward this Sunday, March 14, remember to change your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector batteries.

If your house has 10-year lithium smoke alarms, just take a moment to test your alarms to make sure they're all working correctly.

Remember... a smoke alarm with a dead battery or no battery is the same as having no alarm at all!!!

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. Here are some general guidelines for smoke alarm maintenance from the United States Fire Administration (USFA):

Smoke alarms powered by a 9-volt battery:

• Test alarms monthly.
• Replace the batteries at least once a year.
• Replace the entire smoke alarm unit every 8-10 years.

Smoke alarms powered by a 10-year lithium (or “long life”) battery:

• Test alarms monthly.
• Since you can't and shouldn't replace the lithium battery, replace the entire smoke alarm unit according to manufacturer’s instructions.

Smoke alarms that are hardwired into the home’s electrical system:

• Test alarms monthly.
• Replace the backup battery at least once a year.
• Replace the entire smoke alarm unit every 8-10 years.

Spring is a time for new beginnings and new health habits! While you're at it, learn more about smoke alarms and which types are recommended by the USFA.