Pasadena Fire Dept offers tips for Daylight Saving Time Nov. 6

Daylight Saving Time, which begins Sunday, Nov. 6., is when we all reset our clocks to “fall back” one hour.



The Pasadena Fire Department wants everyone to take the opportunity to change all smoke and carbon monoxide alarm batteries, too.



“It’s a habit we want everyone to get into,” said Emergency Management Coordinator Lisa Derderian. “While resetting your clocks, replace old alarm batteries with fresh, high-quality ones to keep them ready to protect you all year long. It’s also a good time to change emergency flashlight batteries and supplies in your disaster kits.”



Carbon monoxide alarms detect unhealthy levels of this odorless, tasteless and potentially deadly gas that can accumulate in enclosed spaces due to malfunctioning fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, ranges and water heaters.



The Fire Department also asks everyone to test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms by pushing the test button after installing new batteries. Alarms should be tested at least once a month and should be replaced with new models every 10 years. If you have any doubt about the working condition of a smoke or carbon monoxide alarm, replace it right away.



Properly functioning smoke alarms should be placed in all sleeping rooms and in hallways directly adjacent to those rooms. If sleeping rooms are on an upper level, a smoke alarm should be installed in the center of the ceiling directly above the interior stairway. Carbon monoxide alarms should be placed near sleeping areas, especially if bedrooms are on an upper level, as carbon monoxide rises.



Remember to clean your alarms using a vacuum cleaner to remove dust and cobwebs. If your alarms have been accidentally painted over, they may need to be replaced.



The Fire Department reminds everyone to practice escape plans with children because they often become scared and confused when a fire erupts. Make sure your children recognize the sound of your home's alarms and teach them to respond instinctively to them. Create at least two different escape routes from every room and practice them with the entire family. Just a little preparation can save lives.



For more information about how you can make your home safer visit www.cityofpasadena.net/disaster or call (626) 744-7177.



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Ann Erdman

Public Information Officer

City of Pasadena

www.cityofpasadena.net/publicaffairs

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