MUSCATINE, Iowa – As residents set their clocks back for the end of Daylight Savings Time this weekend, the Muscatine Fire Department urges everyone to take this opportunity to ensure their home smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are working properly.
“The twice-yearly clock change is the perfect reminder to test your smoke and CO detectors, replace batteries, update outdated units, and encourage family and friends to do the same,” said Fire Chief Mike Hartman.
Key Safety Tips:
- Test all smoke and CO detectors monthly.
- Replace batteries at least twice a year, or immediately if the detector chirps.
- Install at least one smoke detector per floor and in each sleeping area, as recommended by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
- Replace smoke alarms every 10 years and carbon monoxide detectors every 7–8 years.
- Consider alarms with voice alerts, which are more effective than traditional beeping alarms, especially for children.
- Photoelectric alarms with 10-year lithium batteries are recommended, and the installation date should be marked on each detector.
“Modern homes contain more synthetic materials, which ignite and spread fire faster than older natural materials,” said Assistant Fire Chief Robbie Rock. “Early detection gives you the precious minutes you need to escape safely.”
Smoke Alarm Battery Guidance:
- Alarms with non-replaceable 10-year batteries should be replaced entirely if they chirp.
- Alarms with replaceable batteries should have batteries replaced at least once a year or when chirping.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for battery type and replacement.
Carbon Monoxide Safety:
- CO is an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly within minutes.
- All homes with fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, or attached garages are required by Iowa law to have CO detectors.
- If an alarm sounds, leave the home immediately and call 911.
Statistics show that homes without working smoke alarms have more than double the fire-related death rate compared to homes with functioning alarms. Having working smoke and CO detectors dramatically increases survival chances during emergencies.
“Changing your batteries while adjusting your clocks is simple, but it could save lives,” Hartman said. “If you need help testing or replacing your alarms, contact the Muscatine Fire Department.”
Remember: Test. Change. Escape. Stay safe.