Change your clock, check your smoke alarm batteries

Released: March 12, 2021 at 4:08 p.m.

Winnipeg, MB – On Sunday, March 14, 2021 at 2 a.m., the clocks will spring forward to mark the beginning of daylight savings time. The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) reminds residents to check the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms and test them when you change your clocks this weekend.

If you are purchasing a smoke alarm or a carbon monoxide alarm, consider purchasing an alarm that detects both smoke and carbon monoxide.

Knowing your what type of smoke or carbon monoxide alarm you have in your home can help you determine the correct steps to take to change your alarm’s batteries:

  • Alarms with non-replaceable 10-year batteries are designed to remain effective for up to 10 years. If the alarm chirps to warn you that the battery is low, replace the entire smoke alarm right away.
  • Alarms with any other type of battery need new batteries at least once per year. If that alarm chirps to warn you the battery is low, replace the battery right away.
  • Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for replacing batteries in your alarm. The date of manufacture is written on the back of the smoke alarm.

Business owners and organizations should also take this opportunity to check their Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs), as AED batteries and contact pads have a shelf life. AEDs require regular maintenance checks and servicing, as specified in the manufacturer’s instructions.

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

  • A working smoke or carbon monoxide alarm will buy you valuable time.
  • In case of a fire, get out of the building, stay out, and call 911.
  • If your carbon monoxide alarm activates do not attempt to find the source of the leak. Exit the building immediately and all 911.
  • Make sure you have one smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarm on every level of your home and outside all sleeping areas and in your basement.
  • If your smoke and/or carbon monoxide alarm uses disposable batteries, change them twice per year when the time changes.
  • Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms every month.
  • Make sure everyone in your home knows what to do in the event of a fire or carbon monoxide exposure, and practice your escape plan.

For more information on smoke alarms, carbon monoxide safety and fire prevention, visit: winnipeg.ca/fps.

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