Spring Forward and Change Those Smoke Alarm and Carbon Monoxide Detector Batteries!

Media Release

When it's time to spring forward and change the clocks on Sunday, March 10, the Iowa City Fire Department wants to remind residents it is the perfect time to change the batteries in their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. If batteries were recently changed, it is still very important to conduct your monthly test of your smoke alarms.

For the best protection, install smoke alarms on every level of your home, outside every sleeping area, and in every bedroom. Smoke alarms should be mounted high on walls or ceilings and tested monthly. Each home should have at least one carbon monoxide detector in the area outside individual bedrooms.

It is important to replace smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector batteries at least once a year, unless they are 10-year lithium batteries. Even if your alarms and detectors are hardwired, replace the batteries in case of a power outage.

Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors do not last forever. The maximum life span is 8-10 years. After that time, the entire unit should be replaced. If the unit does not respond properly when tested, it should be replaced immediately.

In addition to having working alarms, have an escape plan. Make sure every member of the family has at least two ways out of every room and that locks, windows and other security devices can be opened from the inside without needing a key, tool or special knowledge. Designate a meeting place outside a safe distance from the house. And once you are out, stay out! Practice makes perfect, be sure to have regular fire drills.