A reminder to change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Alarms need to be replaced after 10 years. How old are yours?

Single and multi-family homes that are still using smoke alarms with removable batteries are required to install new alarms that have a 10-year sealed battery when:

1.     alarms exceed 10 years from the date of their being manufactured, or

2.     they fail to respond to operability tests or otherwise malfunction, or

3.     they are newly installed.

Other types of alarms, including hardwired alarms with backup batteries, may still need fresh batteries every six months.

Manufacturers have worked to keep up with the new standards. They even offer smoke and carbon monoxide combination alarms that have a 10-year sealed battery and hush feature built in. While the initial price is higher than cheaper models, the cost over the life of the alarm can actually be a savings. Just think…. no money spent replacing batteries, no forgetting to replace batteries, and no need to remove the alarm for burnt food. Worry-free protection!

But where should alarms be installed? Install alarms on the ceiling, or high on the wall, and always within 15 feet of where we sleep. The idea is to wake us and give us the time we need to react. We have to hear the beep where we sleep!

Check out this video from one of our own firefighters for helpful instructions on how to install your new alarm: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=THau716GZRM