NYS Law recently passed requires all NEW battery-operated smoke alarms sold in New York State be equipped with non-removable, 10-year batteries.
Everyone loses an hour of sleep this weekend when Daylight Saving Time starts at 2 a.m. Sunday.
The IAFC also says consider replacing devices that are older than 10 years old, "Today" reported. Use the old supplies before they expire. Ten-year smoke alarms require little maintenance, and unlike alarms with removable batteries, they are almost impossible to deactivate.
Officials said turning our clocks forward as Daylight Saving Time begins provides the ideal opportunity to check those smoke detectors. Many of those failures are caused by dead or missing batteries, the NFPA said.
Courtesy of the State Fire Marshal's website.
You never know when working smoke alarms could be the difference between life and death for you or your family.
Smoke alarms should be placed inside and outside each bedroom or sleeping area; half of home fire deaths occur during sleeping hours and the early morning. "Please consider joining with the Red Cross to help install 100,000 free smoke alarms between April 28 and May 13".
For the best protection, make sure all smoke alarms are interconnected. "Likewise, carbon monoxide alarms are required outside all sleeping areas if your home has a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace or attached garage". When one sounds, they all sound. We strongly encourage New Yorkers to install 10-year smoke alarms, which can not be easily deactivated.
Additionally, Ohioans should make a habit of changing the batteries in their smoke detectors at least twice a year - at the beginning and end of daylight savings time. If the alarm chirps, replace only the battery.
It also doesn't hurt to vacuum or blow out any dust that might have accumulated in the alarm unit. The instructions are included in the package or can be found on the internet.
At least once a month, press the test button on smoke alarm.