Winnipeg, MB - On Sunday, November 6, 2016 at 2:00 a.m., the clocks will "fall back" one hour marking the end of daylight savings time. The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service is encouraging citizens to take a moment to replace the batteries and test their smoke alarms when adjusting their clocks for this weekend's time change.
According to recent statistics, people are four times more likely to die in a fire if their smoke alarms aren’t working.
Everyone notices when a clock stops ticking, but when a smoke alarm is not functioning it’s not as obvious. The battery could be dead or missing. The only way to ensure it’s working is to test it.
As you move your clocks - back this Sunday, think about fire safety. When getting a chair or stepladder to change yours, or a loved one’s clock, take an extra moment to put fresh batteries in your smoke alarm and test it by pushing the button - it could save your life. (Smoke alarms powered by 10-year lithium ion batteries only require testing.)
Help keep yourself and your loved ones safe in the home by following these simple steps:
- A working smoke alarm will buy you valuable time. Get out, and stay out and call 911.
- Make sure you have one smoke alarm on every level of your home and outside of all sleeping areas. Don’t forget to place a smoke alarm in the basement.
- Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years. The date of manufacture is written on the back.
- Disposable batteries should be replaced twice per year when the time changes.
- You should test your smoke alarm monthly.
- Make sure that everyone in your home knows what to do in the event of a fire and practice your escape route.
For more information on smoke alarms and fire prevention, visit City of Winnipeg - Fire Safety.