Change Clocks and Batteries in Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Change Clocks and Batteries in Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms Clocks will fall back one hour at 2 a.m. on November 3 and the Halton Hills Fire Department is advising residents to install new batteries in their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms when they change their clocks. “In order for smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to do their job, they need to have working batteries,” explained Halton Hills Fire Chief Harry Olivieri “Once a year, old batteries should be replaced with new ones. When you change your clocks on November 3, take the time to install new batteries in all your alarms.” Early warning and knowing what to do when smoke alarms sound is integral to surviving a fire. Working smoke alarms are required in homes on every storey as well as outside of sleeping areas. For added protection, it is recommended that smoke alarms be installed inside bedrooms. For homes with a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace or attached garage, carbon monoxide alarms must be installed outside all sleeping areas. Tampering with or removing the batteries from smoke or carbon monoxide alarms is against the law. Failure to comply with the Fire Code can result in a ticket for $360 or a fine of up to $50,000. “If you are uncertain if your smoke or CO alarms require batteries, please contact Acting Captain Mark Burger to arrange a free Home Safe Home Inspection,” said Mayor Rick Bonnette. “Members of the Halton Hills Fire Department will visit your home to determine if you have the appropriate alarms or require batteries and will also assist in replacing them if needed.”