Duluth Firefighters Remind of Changing Smoke Alarm Batteries

With clocks springing ahead an hour, it's the perfect reminder to change those batteries

DULUTH, Minn. – Two-thirds of home fire deaths result from fires in homes without a working smoke alarm, according to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA).

Duluth IAFF Local 101 firefighters are reminding homeowners to not just change the clocks for Daylight Saving Time, but also the batteries in all smoke detectors.

“Saving your life can be as simple as changing your smoke alarm batteries once a year and replacing smoke alarms every seven to 10 years,” says Pete Johnson, president of Local 101. “Special smoke alarms are even available for those who are deaf or hearing impaired.”

The NFPA reports that working smoke detectors can cut the risk of dying in a house fire in half. With earlier warning, people have more time to escape a burning structure and call 9-1-1.

It is recommended that dual purpose alarms, one that is both a smoke and carbon monoxide detector, are installed in every bedroom, outside every bedroom, and on each floor of a home.