TOMS RIVER – The Toms River Fire Bureau expects that most people will be changing those clocks in time for daylight savings at 2 a.m. on March 10. But are you thinking about changing your smoke alarms?
Probably not! The Fire Bureau is reminding residents to change the batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors when springing ahead for daylight savings this year.
“Replacing the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms when you adjust your clocks twice a year is an easy way to ensure that your family is protected,” said Kevin Esposito, Chief Inspector of the Township’s Fire Prevention Bureau.
According to the National Fire Protection Agency, three out of every five home fire deaths result from fires in homes with no smoke alarms.
“A working smoke alarm can provide an early warning of danger and sleeping with a closed bedroom door can hold back toxic smoke and flames to allow additional time for occupants to escape,” Esposito said. “If you do not have a smoke alarm or carbon monoxide detector, you need to get one. Test your smoke alarms every month and replace the battery at least once a year. If the alarm makes a ‘chirping’ sound, replace it immediately.”
If you haven’t already, make sure to place a smoke alarm in each bedroom and in the common areas on each floor of your home. Smoke alarms should be at least 10 feet from the stove to reduce the risk of false alarms, and less than 12 inches from the ceiling and away from windows, doors and ducts.
For more information, contact the Toms River Bureau of Fire Prevention at 732-240-5153 or visit trfireprevention.com.
