Daylight Saving Time comes to an end this weekend. Now is a good time to make sure that your smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms are working by testing them and replacing batteries if needed. Don’t wait until your alarm begins to “chirp” at an inconvenient time before deciding to change the batteries. Do it now!
Changing smoke and CO alarm batteries at least once a year is one of the easiest and most effective ways to reduce home fire deaths and CO poisoning. In fact, working smoke alarms can cut the risk of dying in a home fire by nearly one-half by providing an early warning and critical extra seconds to escape. Consider installing a long-life battery powered smoke/CO alarm to avoid yearly battery replacements.
Seattle homeowners who identify as seniors, have a disability or live on a low income may qualify for a free smoke/CO alarm with long-life battery from the Seattle Fire Department. If you rent or live outside of Seattle and need new smoke alarms, contact the American Red Cross or your local fire department.