The long-standing “Change Your Clocks, Change Your Batteries” campaign encourages the public to change their smoke alarm batteries when turning back clocks in the fall and ahead in the spring.
On Sunday, March 9th states throughout the U.S. will turn their clocks forward* for Daylight Savings Time. Many people will use this opportunity to change their home smoke alarm batteries as well.
Because working smoke alarms are a critical element of home fire safety, NFPA supports any and all efforts to reinforce the importance of working batteries. However, today’s smoke alarms are not all designed the same, making battery messaging more nuanced.
Following is information to help make sure all smoke alarms have working batteries, accounting for the multiple types of smoke alarms on the market and their varying battery requirements:
- Smoke alarms with non-replaceable 10-year batteries are designed to remain effective for up to 10 years. If the alarm chirps, warning that the battery is low, replace the entire smoke alarm right away.
- Smoke alarms with any other type of battery need a new battery at least once a year. If that alarm chirps, warning the battery is low, replace the battery right away.
- When replacing a battery, follow the manufacturer’s list of batteries on the back of the alarm or manufacturer’s instructions. The manufacturer’s instructions are specific to the batteries (brand and model) that must be used. The smoke alarm may not work properly if a different kind of battery is used.
We also recommend practice Exit Drills In The Home (EDITH) follow these steps:
- Learn two ways out of every room, in case one exit is blocked or dangerous to use.
- Practice getting low and moving to your exits in case there is smoke.
- Choose a safe meeting place a safe distance from your home.
- Have a home fire drill at least twice a year.
- Draw a floor plan of your home, marking two ways out of every room, especially sleeping areas.
- Discuss the escape routes with every member of your household.
- Agree on a meeting place outside your home where everyone will gather after escaping a fire.
Sam DiGiovanna is a 35-year fire service veteran. He started with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, served as Fire Chief at the Monrovia Fire Department and currently serves as Chief at the Verdugo Fire Academy in Glendale. He also is a consultant for www.Lexipol.com