Clocks fell back an hour this past weekend and Perth Fire Chief Trevor Choffe hopes residents will take a few extra minutes to do something that could save their lives.
Daylight saving time is always a perfect reminder to check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
But there’s more to it than simply putting in fresh batteries.
Some alarms have sealed 10-year batteries, while others require regular battery changes.
Even hardwired alarms may have backup batteries that need attention.
Choffe says homeowners should also check the manufacturing or replacement date on their smoke alarms. Units generally need replacing after 10 years, even if they appear to be working.
Ontario fire safety guidelines recommend testing smoke and carbon monoxide alarms every month.
Choffe also recognizes that reaching alarms mounted on ceilings can be difficult for some residents, particularly seniors or those with mobility challenges.
He says that shouldn’t prevent anyone from making sure their home is protected.
Working alarms provide an early warning when something goes wrong, giving families valuable time to get to safety.
Choffe says the time change is a convenient reminder, but checking alarms should remain a regular household habit throughout the year.
