Clocks falling back, don’t forget to change the batteries in your smoke/carbon monoxide alarms

It’s that time of year again.

The clocks fall back this weekend as daylight saving time ends and Quinte West Fire/Rescue reminds everyone to use the occasion to change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

Fire Prevention Officer Dave Wheeler says firefighters often find non-working alarms.

“People don’t realize or they forget that they should be changing their batteries annually. We like to suggest as well, when changing the batteries, to check the expiry dates on smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms. They do expire. On an average, on newer ones, they’re about 10 years but some of the older ones do expire in less time than that.”

Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are required by law.

“There should be a smoke alarm on every level and definitely one by the bedrooms. Carbon monoxide alarms should have one installed by the bedrooms as well. And if you do want more protection, it is a good idea to install smoke alarms in the actual bedrooms themselves. Carbon monoxide alarms, by law, shall be installed in houses with fuel burning appliances, fireplaces or an attached garage.”

Tampering with or removing batteries from smoke and carbon monoxide alarms is against the law and failure to comply with the Fire Code can result in a ticket for $360 or a fine up to $50,000.

The clocks go back one hour on Sunday.