Categories: Lifestyle

Hays County Fire Marshal’s Office ‘Fall Back’ Smoke Alarm Test

Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 1 at 2 a.m. – our clocks “fall back” one hour and it will be lighter in the morning.  As you set your clocks back, it is time to test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms AND change the batteries.
 
Roughly two-thirds of home fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or working smoke alarms. When smoke alarms should have worked but failed to operate, it is usually because batteries were missing, disconnected, or dead. The National Fire Protection Association(NFPA) provides the following guidelines for smoke alarms and also has information about safe disposal of batteries on its website:

 

  • Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.
  • Make sure everyone in the home understands the sound of the smoke alarm and knows how to respond.
  • Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.
  • Replace the smoke alarm immediately if it doesn’t respond properly when tested.
  • Smoke alarms with non-replaceable (long-life) batteries are designed to remain effective for up to 10 years. If the alarm chirps, a warning that the battery is low, replace the entire smoke alarm right away.
  • For smoke alarms with any other type of battery, replace batteries at least once a year. If the alarm chirps, replace only the battery.
Share
Published by
Staff

Recent Posts

San Marcos City Council reviews Sidewalk Maintenance and Gap Infill Program

The San Marcos City Council received a presentation on the Sidewalk Maintenance and Gap Infill…

2 years ago

San Marcos River Rollers skate on and rebuild

The San Marcos River Rollers have skated through obstacles after taking a two-year break during…

2 years ago

After 8 Years, San Marcos Corridor News Bids Our Readers Farewell

San Marcos Corridor News has been reporting on the incredible communities in the Hays County…

2 years ago

High bacteria levels at Jacobs Well halts swimming season

Visitors won't be able to swim in the crystal clear waters of the Jacobs Well Natural…

2 years ago

Pets of the Week: Meet Sally & Nutella!

Looking to adopt or foster animals from the local shelter? Here are the San Marcos…

2 years ago

Texas still leads in workplace deaths among Hispanics

The Lone Star State leads the nation in labor-related accidents and especially workplace deaths and…

2 years ago

This website uses cookies.