Winnipeg, MB – On Sunday, March 13, 2022 at 2 a.m., the clocks will spring forward to mark the beginning of daylight savings time. As residents adjust their clocks this weekend, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) reminds residents to also change the batteries on their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and test the devices to ensure they are in good working order.
Knowing what type of smoke or carbon monoxide alarm you have in your home can help you determine the correct steps to take to check your units:
- Alarms with non-replaceable 10-year batteries are designed to remain effective for up to 10 years. If this type of alarm chirps periodically to warn you that the 10-year 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 periodically to warn you the battery is low, replace the battery right away.
- Test units by pressing and holding the button until the alarm sounds. If the alarm doesn’t sound, replace the batteries if possible. If the alarm still doesn’t sound, replace the unit.
- Alarms that have exceeded their expiry date should be replaced even if they still work.
- 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.
If you are purchasing a smoke alarm or a carbon monoxide alarm, consider purchasing an alarm that detects both smoke and carbon monoxide.
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.
A working smoke or carbon monoxide alarm will buy you valuable time. Help keep yourself and your loved ones safe in the home by following these simple steps:
- Make sure you have one smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarm on every level of your home, 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.
- 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 call 911.
For more information on smoke alarms, carbon monoxide safety and fire prevention, visit: winnipeg.ca/fps.