Check smoke alarms, CO detectors when turning clocks back on Sunday

Daylight saving time ends on Sunday, Nov. 3. Before going to bed on Saturday, Nov. 2, turn your clocks back one hour (“spring forward, fall back”) and consequently gain an hour of sleep.

This is a good time to check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, says Cal Fire/Ramona Fire Battalion Chief Saul Villagomez.

Smoke Alarms

Smoke alarms detect and alert people to fire in its early stages, giving them the time needed to escape the dwelling or building safely. Properly operating smoke alarms can mean the difference between life and death in a fire, cutting the risk of dying in home structure fires in half.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detectors

Carbon monoxide (CO) is Colorless and Odorless and can kill a person at high levels.

CO is produced whenever any fuel such as gas, oil, kerosene, wood, or charcoal is burned. If appliances that burn fuel are malfunctioning or not properly maintained, dangerous levels of CO can result. Hundreds of people die every year from CO poisoning.

Having smoke alarms and CO detectors in your home is not enough. When you adjust your clocks at daylight saving time, we advise you to also change the batteries and service detectors.

Maintenance tips:

•Use a vacuum or brush to dust the cobwebs from your detectors.

•Ensure alarms are plugged in all the way into a working outlet or, if battery operated, change the batteries with a fresh set.

•Follow manufacturer recommendations and test your alarm once a month.

•Have a home evacuation plan and practice with your family.