Reminder: Check Detectors When Turning Clocks Forward

OCEAN CITY -- As daylight saving time comes to an end this weekend, the Ocean City Fire Department is reminding the residents and visitors of Ocean City to test their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and to change the batteries in each.

Working smoke alarms are vital in the notification of a fire, allowing you and your family adequate time to escape. A report published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) stated that the most common reason for smoke detector failure in the United States was missing or dead batteries. It is estimated that approximately 900 lives could be saved annually if all homes had working smoke detectors.

It is important to install at least one smoke alarm on every floor of your home (including the basement) and outside each sleeping area. It’s a good idea, especially if you sleep with your doors closed, that a smoke alarm is also installed inside your bedroom. Alarms mounted on the wall should be positioned four to 12 inches from the ceiling, while ceiling-mounted alarms should be positioned four inches or more away from the nearest wall.

In addition to smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms are required in all residential dwellings that contain fuel-burning equipment or attached garages. Fuel burning equipment could be gas water heaters, furnaces, dryers, fireplaces, wood stoves, or engine exhaust. Carbon monoxide alarms should be installed on each level of the dwelling unit, and be audible in all bedrooms within the dwelling.

Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms should be tested at least monthly and should have the batteries replaced twice a year. A simple way to remember to change your smoke and carbon monoxide alarm batteries is to change the battery when you change your clocks. On Sunday, March 10, change your clock and change your smoke and carbon monoxide alarm batteries.

For more information on how to keep you and your family safe, or to request a smoke alarm, carbon monoxide alarm, or 9-volt battery, please contact the Ocean City Fire Department, Office of the Fire Marshal at 410-289-8780 or visit www.nfpa.org.