Change Your Clock, Change Your Batteries

Daylight Saving Time begins Sunday, March 14, 2021. As we “Spring” ahead and are changing our clocks, the Manitowoc Fire Rescue Department wants to remind you to also change batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Unlike some of our other electronic devices that adjust themselves to the time change; our smoke detectors need your assistance. 

The message is simple and it’s easy to do. Please take a few minutes to make sure life-saving alarms have fresh batteries so you, your family, and your home are protected.   Fire Chief Todd Blaser, reminds Manitowoc County residents that after batteries are changed in alarms, take a few extra minutes to test your alarms and remind family, friends, and neighbors to do the same.  

Eighty percent of child fire fatalities occur in homes without working smoke alarms. It’s a tragic statistic that can be prevented. Changing smoke alarm batteries at least once a year, testing those alarms, and reminding others to do the same are some of the simplest, most effective ways to reduce these tragic deaths and injuries. “The majority of house fires happen between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. when most families are sleeping,” said Chief Blaser. “Smoke alarm installation and maintenance is a simple, effective way to reduce home fire deaths. Children and senior citizens are most at risk, and a working smoke alarm can give them the extra seconds they need to get out safely.”

“A working smoke detector doubles your chance of surviving a home fire. So, why would you not want you and your family to have this protection!”  If we can be of any further assistance please do not hesitate to contact our Fire Rescue Department.