On November 2, Daylight Saving Time ended and clocks went back an hour. Did you also remember to check the batteries in your smoke alarm?
Most alarms need a new battery at least once year, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. Also, replace any smoke alarm that is more than 10 years old with a new alarm and battery.
This is important! According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), there were an estimated 365,000 reported home structure fires in 2012. Nearly 2,500 deaths resulted from those fires.
As NFPA reminds us:
Your ability to get out depends on advance warning from smoke alarms and advance planning.
Take steps ahead of an emergency!
- Create and practice a home fire escape plan.
- Be sure that windows and doors in your home are clear and operable.
- Learn more and download NFPA’s escape planning grid at http://www.nfpa.org/safety-information/for-consumers/escape-planning
