Change your clocks, check your alarms

Released: March 7, 2024 at 10:55 a.m.

Winnipeg, MB – On Sunday, March 10, 2024 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.

Knowing what type of smoke or carbon monoxide alarm you have in your home can help you determine how to check and make sure your alarms are working:

  • Alarms with non-replaceable 10-year batteries are designed to last 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 can be found on the back or on the side of the smoke alarm.

If you’re buying a smoke alarm or a carbon monoxide alarm, consider getting a combination 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:

  • Install a smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarm on every level of your home, and outside all sleeping areas.
  • 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.

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