Spring forward, check smoke alarms

Editor's note: The Ohio fire marshal submitted the following piece ahead of Daylight Saving Time, which occurs early Sunday, March 8. This means clocks go forward one hour. As Ohioans prepare to "spring forward" for the upcoming time change this weekend, the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal is urging everyone to use this opportunity to test their smoke alarms, check their expiration dates and replace their batteries. Working smoke alarms remain one of the simplest and most effective tools for preventing fire-related tragedies. Home fires spread rapidly, and properly working smoke alarms give you advance warning and precious extra seconds to escape safely. According to the National Fire Protection Association, the risks of dying in a home fire are reduced by 60% when working smoke alarms are present. "Taking just a few minutes to test your smoke alarms can save your life as well as the lives of your loved ones," said Ohio State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon. "The upcoming time change serves as natural reminder to make sure your smoke alarms are ready to alert you and your family in the event of an emergency." The fire marshal's division reminds Ohio residents of the following smoke alarm safety tips: • Test every smoke alarm in your home; This can be done by pressing the alarm's test button. Smoke alarms should be tested on a monthly basis. • Replace batteries in smoke alarms that use replaceable batteries; If your smoke alarm is 10 years old or older, replace the entire unit. You can find a manufacturer's date printed on the back of the unit. • Make sure smoke alarms are installed in every room of your home, in main hallways and on every level, including the basement Ohioans who need smoke alarms are urged to contact their local fire department or their local chapter of the American Red Cross. The time change is also a good time for Ohioans to check their carbon monoxide alarms. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly without warning. "Fire and carbon monoxide safety rely on early detection," Reardon said. "Testing alarms during the time change, and once each month, is a simple step that can make all the difference." In addition to checking smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, Ohio families are encouraged to take time to review or create a fire escape plan. Every plan should outline two ways to exit each room in the home and identify a designated meeting place outdoors. Routinely reviewing this escape plan is key to ensuring everyone in the home understands what to do in the event of a fire.