Elmont Online

With Daylight Saving Time ending on Sunday, November 6 at 2:00 A.M, we will need to move our clocks back one hour. It will also be a good time for residents to check the batteries in their smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors to make sure they are functioning, and replace the batteries, if needed says the Elmont Fire Department. The Department also recommends that people dust or vacuum the detectors to keep them free of debris, so they can work properly.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), an estimated 890 lives could be saved each year if all homes had working smoke alarms. Almost two-thirds of home fire deaths result from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.

“A smoke alarm is one of the best safety devices you can buy, and it’s a good idea to test each detector in your home,” said Elmont Chief of Department Michael Capoziello. “New York State law also requires the installation of a carbon monoxide detector in most residences. These detectors will warn you and your family if carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless, and potentially dangerous gas, is present in the home. So, it’s critical that carbon monoxide detectors have functioning batteries, too.”

NFPA and Elmont FD smoke & CO detector tips:

• Test detectors at least once a month by using the test button.
• Check the batteries every six months, and change the batteries every year. If a battery is starting to lose its power, the unit will usually chirp to warn you.
• Vacuum or blow out any dust that might accumulate in the unit.
• NEVER borrow a battery from a detector to use somewhere else.
• NEVER paint a smoke or CO detector.
• Install at least one smoke alarm on every floor of your home, including the basement, and in or near each sleeping area.
• Smoke detectors should not be installed near a window because drafts could interfere with their operation.
• Alarms should be mounted high on walls or ceilings.
• Families should also develop and practice a home fire escape plan.

For more information on smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and other information on fire safety and prevention, visit the National Fire Protection Association website at www.nfpa.org.

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