Change your clocks, change your batteries

On Sunday March 12, states throughout the U.S. will spring their clocks forward to start Daylight Savings Time. Many people will also use this opportunity to change their home’s smoke alarm batteries as well.

Working smoke alarms are a critical element of home fire safety. However, today’s smoke alarms are not all designed the same, making battery messaging more nuanced.

Here is some information to help make sure all smoke alarms have working batteries, accounting for the multiple types of smoke alarms on the market and their varying battery requirements:

• Smoke alarms with non-replaceable 10-year batteries are designed to remain effective for up to 10 years. If the alarm chirps, warning that the battery is low, replace the entire smoke alarm right away.
• Smoke alarms with any other type of battery need a new battery at least once a year. If that alarm chirps, warning the battery is low, replace the battery right away.
• When replacing a battery, follow the manufacturer’s list of batteries on the back of the alarm or the manufacturer’s instructions. Manufacturer’s instructions are specific to the batteries (brand and model) that must be used. The smoke alarm may not work properly if a different kind of battery is used.