Red Cross encouraging smoke alarm checks when clocks ‘fall back’
CLEVELAND (WJER) (Nov. 1, 2024) – It’s time again to reset the clocks – and make sure the smoke alarms in our homes are working properly.
That’s the message this weekend from the American Red Cross and regional spokesman Jim McIntyre.
“It’s good to remind people to do it at least twice a year, and we find pairing the message to test your smoke alarm with the change in time makes a lot of sense.”
Experts recommend aving at least one smoke alarm on every floor and replacing them every 10 years since they can become less sensitive over time. McIntyre says the Red Cross partners with local fire departments to install them in homes for free.
“If you visit redcross.org/noh look for our home fire campaign, and there you can make an appointment.”
McIntyre says everyone should also have a fire safety plan that includes at least two ways to escape each room, and to practice that plan with everyone in the household, especially young children.