The County News Center reminds San Diego residents to change your clocks forward one hour Saturday night for Daylight Saving Time. And while you’re at it, check to make sure all your home’s smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working. Typically, you just need to press a button to hear the alarm activate. If it beeps, the battery is still good. Safety experts further suggest checking the battery in your smoke alarm on a monthly basis and replacing the battery annually.
Generally, all smoke alarms should be replaced after 10 years to ensure that continued protection is in place. This simple step can save your life or your loved ones. More than half of fatal home fires occur from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. and the risk of dying in a home fire is cut in half by having a working smoke alarm installed, according to the U.S. Fire Administration.
For older adults who may not be able to evacuate as quickly or who may need assistance, smoke alarms are particularly critical. National safety statistics indicate that people 65 or older are two times more likely to die in a house, and that quadruples for those older than 75, according to the Burn Institute.
If you’re a senior without working smoke alarms, the Burn Institute wants to help with its Senior Smoke Alarm Program, which offers people over 62 who own their homes free smoke alarms and installation in San Diego County.
For more information, visit the County News Center at https://www.countynewscenter.com/spring-forward-and-improve-your-household-safety/
