“Change Your Clock, Check Your Smoke Alarm”

Change Your Clock, Check Your Smoke Alarm

Have Working Smoke Alarms

Is your smoke alarm still working? A smoke alarm with a dead or missing battery is the same as having no smoke alarm at all. On Sunday, November 6 when resetting your clocks for Daylight Saving Time, make sure your smoke alarms work and replace the batteries, if necessary. Take care of your smoke alarms according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and follow these tips from the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA):
Smoke alarm powered by a nine-volt battery

Test the alarm monthly.

Replace the batteries at least once every year.

Replace the entire smoke alarm every 10 years.

Smoke alarm powered by a 10-year lithium (or “long-life”) battery

Test the alarm monthly.

Since you cannot (and should not) replace the lithium battery, replace the entire smoke alarm according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Smoke alarm that is hardwired into your home’s electrical system
Test the alarm monthly.
Replace the backup battery at least once every year.

Replace the entire smoke alarm every 10 years.

For more information on Smoke Alarms, visit the USFA Smoke Alarm page.