Time To Roll Those Clocks Back Check Those Alarms

This weekend marks the end of daylight savings time. So before you go to bed on Saturday night don't forget to turn back your clocks an hour.

While you turn back the clocks check those smoke alarms

The Yakima Fire Department and the Washington State Fire Marshal's Office is hoping after turning back your clocks that you'll also check your smoke alarms.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, working smoke alarms save lives by cutting the risk of dying in a home fire by half. You know where to place those detectors, in every bedroom, in hallways outside bedrooms, and on every floor of the home, including basements.

Replace those alarms that are 10 years old or older

How old are your detectors? Smoke alarms with non-replaceable batteries are designed to remain effective for up to 10 years. Fire officials say replace the smoke alarm if the manufacture date is more than 10 years old. The date of manufacture should be indicated on the back of the smoke alarm.

If you're a landlord your property must have working alarms

If you are a landlord don't forget rental housing must also have working smoke alarms. Fire officials say you should call  your landlord or property manager if your rental home does not have smoke alarms installed.  Maintenance and testing of smoke alarms is the responsibility of the tenant.
“Working smoke alarms save lives by waking up or alerting people in the early and survivable stages of a fire,” says Yakima Fire Chief Aaron Markham. “Smoke alarms need to be in any room where people or family pets sleep. Plan your escape routes today and practice keeping your loved ones safe from fires in your home.”