As you turn back your clocks this weekend for the end of daylight saving time Lincoln Fire and Rescue is asking everyone to test their smoke alarms and replace batteries if needed. Public Information Officer MJ Lierman says using interconnected smoke alarms is best because when one sounds they others do as well.
“You want to install smoke detectors in each bedroom and outside every sleeping area,” Lierman says. She says smoke alarms need to be in the basement as well. “They should also be placed on the ceiling or high on a wall. Smoke detectors should be installed at least ten feet from a stove or oven to prevent false alarms when cooking.”
Parts of smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms can wear out over time. Lierman says test these devices each month to make sure they are still working. To test a smoke detector, press and hold the test button.
It can take a few seconds before a high-pitched chirping sound is heard. If the sound is weak or nonexistent replace your batteries. To test a carbon monoxide detector, hold down the test button until you hear two beeps sound off. Once you hear these beeps, release your finger off the test button.
Lierman says LFR also has a program where they install detectors for deaf and hard of hearing residents. The devices will vibrate their pillows or produce strobe lights to alert them to potential danger.