Oakville residents time to turn clocks back, change batteries on smoke alarms
Published November 4, 2021 at 11:10 am
Oakville residents looking to catch up on some sleep will love this weekend.
This Sunday marks Daylight Saving Time and with this being November that means having to wind back your clock by one hour before you go to bed on Saturday night.
While everyone can use an extra hour of sleep, the Town of Oakville is also reminding residents Daylight Saving Time is also a good time to check the batteries in your smoke and CO alarms.
It is the law in Ontario to have working smoke alarms in your home and more importantly they save lives.
Here are some things you can do to ensure your smoke alarms are working properly:
Smoke alarm installation and maintenance
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- Install alarms next to any sleeping area
- Install alarms on every level of the home
- Homeowners must provide and install working smoke alarms for tenants
- Remember to keep smoke alarms well maintained at all times
Maintain your smoke alarm through
- Periodic testing
- Gentle vacuuming every six months with a soft bristle brush attachment
- Replacing the battery once a year
Battery operated alarms
- Replace your battery once a year and/or if your alarm is sounding its low battery warning
- Ensure you use the proper battery for your alarm (marked inside alarm)
If you experience repeated nuisance alarms (false alarms) consider:
- Installing smoke alarms with a pause feature
- Moving the alarm
- Trying alternative alarm
Never remove the battery or disconnect the power source!
There is a good reason why the sound of the alarm is loud and persistent: it is intended to get your attention when there is a fire.
Here are a few simple steps that could eliminate some nuisance alarms:
- Keep ovens and stovetop burners clean.
- Clean out crumbs in the bottom of the toaster.
- Use the fan on the range hood when cooking to help remove steam and combustion particles from the air.