Fall Back Safely When You Reset Your Clocks

We turn the clocks back on Saturday night, marking the end of Daylight Saving Time. When the clocks “fall back,” it’s a great time to fall back on some important safety routines.

Replace batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. If you have a smoke alarm with removable batteries, it’s a good idea to replace them regularly. Doing it when you “fall back” or “spring forward” assures that you have an easy-to-remember date to change batteries and check your smoke alarm. If your alarms are older, it’s a good idea to consider replacing them. Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years. Many newer models have permanent, long-life batteries. When you need to replace the batteries, you simply replace the unit, assuring you always have a functioning smoke alarm. When installing a new smoke alarm, write in marker on the alarm the date it was installed.

Remember, that you should have a smoke alarm on each level of your home, in hallways outside bedrooms and one in each bedroom. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing your alarms. More information about smoke alarms is available here.

When you’ve tested your alarms, replaced the batteries or updated the smoke alarms, spend some time reviewing your emergency preparedness.

Check your emergency supplies kit. Make sure that any first aid and food items are not expired and in need of replacement. Test and replace if needed the batteries in your portable radio and flashlights. Use the Red Cross emergency supplies kit checklist to make sure you have the items you need in your kit.

Check and practice your escape and communications plans. In the event of a home fire, you might only have two minutes to escape your home. If you and your family are organized and know the plan, it can help reduce panic, speed escape and save lives. Do you know multiple escape routes from the rooms in your home? Do you have pre-arranged spots to meet safely outside? Do you have a communication plan to reach each other or someone else in an emergency? Check out our resources for developing a disaster preparedness plan.

Use technology to help you prepare and stay informed. Red Cross apps for your smartphone can help with first aid, storm preparedness and much more. Check them out and download the free apps today!