Clocks fall back; change smoke alarm batteries
The Gov. Josh Shapiro administration is reminding Pennsylvanians to change the batteries in their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms while changing their clocks for this weekend’s “fall back” time change. When functioning, smoke alarms can decrease the risk of dying in a home fire by as much as half.
“Smoke alarms save lives. The early warning provided by a smoke alarm can be the difference between safely exiting your home, and not making it out,” said Thomas Cook, Pennsylvania State Fire commissioner. “These critical devices are your family’s first line of defense against the dangers of fire, but they must be in working order. I can’t emphasize enough the importance of working smoke detectors, especially for anyone in your life who may need a little extra time to get out.”
According to the commission, occupants may have fewer than two minutes to safely exit a building during a fire, so early notification is necessary. Developing and practicing an escape plan once your alarm sounds is critical to ensure a quick exit. Identify two ways out of each room plus a meeting place once outside to ensure everyone got out safely. Cook encourages assisting younger children and older adults with developing and practicing these plans.
Carbon monoxide alarms also save lives. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, tasteless gas that can incapacitate victims before they are aware of exposure. Sources can include wood-burning fireplaces and stoves, gas fireplaces, appliances, grills, generators and motor vehicles.
Maintaining wood and gas-burning appliances is critical to reduce the risk of malfunctions that can lead to carbon monoxide exposure, according to the commission. Having a working carbon monoxide alarm in your home can alert you before you recognize symptoms such as nausea, headaches, dizziness, disorientation and fatigue, which are often confused with other common illnesses.
