3/6/14 - It may not be warm outside yet and weâll be losing an hour of sleep but it will be lighter out, later since itâs time to spring forward this weekend. Daylight Saving Time begins this Sunday, with area residents reminded to set their clocks ahead by one hour at 2am. Many devices such as cell phones and computers update and sync automatically with the spring time change but it also marks an easy way to remember to replace or at least check the batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Howell Fire Marshal Les Rodwell says smoke alarms slowly start to wear out like everything else and should be replaced every ten years to make sure they respond properly and in a timely manner. Carbon monoxide detectors should also be replaced every seven years but both alarms should always be located near sleeping areas. He says this weekend is a good time to not only actually test smoke alarms but make sure you have an escape plan in case of a fire and practice it. Rodwell adds that a number of local departments including Howell have programs in which firefighters will come out and check smoke alarms to make sure theyâre in proper working order and help replace them or install new batteries. (JM)
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