Residents are reminded to check their alarms when they change their clocks for the end of Daylight Saving Time.
Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday, Nov. 2, at 2 a.m. local time. Residents are encouraged to check their smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms when changing their clocks.
According to the State Fire Marshal’s Office, modern smoke and carbon monoxide alarms have the manufacturing date printed on the back of the device. Smoke alarms should be replaced after 10 years, and CO alarms should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s instructions – usually 5, 7, or 10 years, depending on the make and model.
The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) offer the following safety tips:
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms monthly to ensure they are working. CPSC recommends installing smoke alarms on every level of the home, inside each bedroom and outside sleeping areas. CO alarms should be installed on each level of the home and outside sleeping areas.
- If the CO alarm sounds, immediately move to a fresh air location outdoors or by an open window or door. Make sure everyone inside the home is accounted for. Call for help from a fresh air location and stay there until emergency personnel arrive.
- Batteries should be replaced in alarms at least once each year, unless the alarms have sealed 10-year batteries. Replace the smoke alarm if it is more than 10 years old.
- Choose photoelectric alarms from a well-known, national brand. Select alarms with a sealed, long-life battery and a “hush” feature.
- Have a fire escape plan and make sure there are two ways out from each room and a clear path to outside from each exit. Once out, stay out of the house.
- During a fire, closed bedroom doors can slow the spread and allow extra moments to get to safety.
According to the NFPA, signs of carbon monoxide poisoning can be confusion with flu symptoms, food poisoning and other illnesses. Some symptoms include shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness, lightheadedness or headaches. High levels of CO can be fatal, causing death within minutes.
If you believe you may be experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning, call 911 immediately.
For more information, contact the North Attleborough Fire Department’s Public Education Team at nafd_publiceducation@nattleboro.com.