Daylight Saving Time Begins Today

Daylight Saving Time started at 2 a.m. this morning and clocks have to be moved one hour ahead.

The Washington State Fire Marshall wanted us to remind you that today is also a great time to check your smoke alarm batteries and carbon monoxide detectors.

“Take time to change the batteries in your smoke alarms, testing your smoke alarms, planning two ways out and practicing escape routes with the entire family. Being prepared and knowing what to do if fire happens to occur can save your life and the lives of your loved ones,” said Fire Marshal Charles M. Duffy.

Working smoke alarms nearly cut in half the risk of dying in a home fire. In 2010, approximately 62 percent of fire deaths in Washington State occurred in homes without working smoke alarms. The peak time for home fire fatalities is between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. when most families are sleeping. Ensuring smoke alarms are operational is critical to life safety.  Smoke alarms are designed to detect the presence of smoke and alert occupants to danger. 

For more information about fire safety, please visit the State Fire Marshal website at www.wsp.wa.gov/fire/firemars.htm.