Spring Forward, Change Smoke Detectors

Editor's Note: This article was written by David-Reich Hale.

Daylight Saving Time begins this weekend, and Patch urges residents to change the batteries in their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors when they spring forward.

The time change will take place at 2 a.m. Sunday.

Do you have enough smoke detectors in your home or business? The North Bellmore Fire Department has some tips:

A Smoke Detector Can Save Your Life if it is Working

• Dead, missing, or disconnected batteries are the principal cause of non-working detectors
• Test once a month (replace any battery if it is too weak to sound alarm)
• When the detector chirps the battery is low
• Replace batteries twice a year (Daylight savings)

Dealing With False Alarms

• Do not disconnect the detector; if the alarm activates RELOCATE IT
• If false alarms persist, replace the detector (try a different brand)

Nothing Lasts Forever, After 10 Years Replace It

Installing Smoke Detectors

For Installation Instructions, read the directions that come with your smoke detector.

How many do I need?

• Install outside each sleeping area and on each level, including the basement
• For the hearing impaired you can obtain detectors with flashing lights

Where do I install my detectors?

• Wall mounted units should be installed with the top 4 to 12 inches from the ceiling
• Ceiling mounted units at least 4 inches from the nearest wall
• Do not mount near registers, doors, windows or ceiling fans