Change your clock, change your smoke and carbon monoxide alarm batteries

Released: March 5, 2020 at 9:34 a.m.

Winnipeg, MB – On Sunday, March 8, 2020 at 2 a.m., the clocks will "spring ahead" one hour marking the start of daylight saving time. The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) reminds residents to take a moment to test their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and replace their alarms’ batteries 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. The only way to detect carbon monoxide in a home is by having a working carbon monoxide alarm.

Residents who do not have a working smoke alarm in their home can sign up for the S.A.F.E. (Smoke Alarm for Every) Family Program, which provides and installs free alarms in owner-occupied homes. More information on the program can be found at winnipeg.ca/safefamily.

In addition to changing clocks and testing alarms, the time change is also a good reminder for businesses and organizations to check their Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs), as AED batteries and contact pads have a shelf life. AEDs require regular checks and maintenance, as specified in the manufacturer’s instructions.

Help keep yourself and your loved ones safe by following these simple steps:

  • A working smoke alarm and a carbon monoxide alarm will buy you valuable time in an emergency. In case of fire or suspected carbon monoxide exposure, get out, stay out, and call 9-1-1.
  • Make sure you have one smoke alarm on every level of your home, outside all sleeping areas, and in your basement.
  • Ensure you have a carbon monoxide alarm near your sleeping areas, located in a place where it will wake you up if it sounds.
  • Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years. Carbon monoxide alarms expire after 7 years on average, and the date of manufacture is written on the back of the alarm.
  • Alarms with disposable batteries should have their batteries replaced twice per year when the time changes – including alarms that have batteries as a back-up power source. Remember to recycle the batteries at any of the City’s 4R Winnipeg Depots.
  • Test your smoke alarm monthly.
  • Make sure that everyone in your home knows what to do in the event of an emergency and practice your escape plan.

For more information on smoke alarms and fire prevention, visit City of Winnipeg – Fire Safety.

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