| SARASOTA COUNTY – Daylight saving time ends Sunday, Nov. 1 and Sarasota County Fire Department personnel encourage residents to use the time change as a reminder to test and replace batteries in smoke alarms. According to the National Fire Protection Association, approximately three out of five home fire deaths result from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or non-working smoke alarms. When properly installed and maintained, smoke alarms can save lives by giving residents an early warning and a chance to escape to safety. According to Sarasota County Fire Chief Michael Regnier, these safety tips could save lives: Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including inside and outside sleeping areas. This is especially important if you sleep with the bedroom door closed. Keep smoke alarms clean. Dust can interfere with how smoke alarms work, so it helps to regularly clean them.The “chirping” noise smoke alarms make could mean the battery power is low. Replace the batteries as soon as possible. Replace batteries in smoke alarms when adjusting your clocks for the time change. Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years, as they do wear out. Write the purchase date on the back of the smoke alarm to help you remember when to replace it. The time change can also be a good reminder to change the batteries inside weather radios, which can keep you informed in the event of severe weather. If you cannot afford a smoke alarm or would like more information on smoke alarms, contact Sarasota County Fire Prevention Office at 941-861-2290. For additional information regarding weather radios, call the Sarasota County Contact Center at 941-861-5000. |