The Forsyth County Fire Department encourages citizens to change the batteries in their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms when they set their clocks back an hour on Sunday, November 1, as daylight saving time ends.  

“Something as simple as changing a battery could save lives,” Division Chief Jason Shivers said. “And by replacing these batteries twice each year when you adjust your clocks, it’s easy to remember.”  

If the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are serviceable, they should be changed every six to twelve months. Then, the Forsyth County Fire Department suggests testing the alarms at least once a month.  

Residents should review the recommendations of the unit manufacturer regarding battery replacement. The units themselves should be replaced every seven to ten years.  

“While you’re asleep, you cannot rely on your body’s ability to smell smoke,” Fire Chief Danny Bowman said. “Your only hope of being alerted to a fire is a fully functioning smoke alarm. It takes just a few minutes to replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, but this is a small task that should not be neglected.”  

The Fire Department also reminds citizens of the following safety precautions: 

• Install a smoke alarm on every level of the home        

• Ensure smoke alarms are clean and free of dust 

• Dial 911 in case of any emergency  

The Fire Department’s Public Safety Education Division provides battery-powered smoke alarms free of charge for senior citizens and residents in need. To receive more details about this program, contact the Forsyth County Fire Department at (770) 205-5699 or publiceducation@forsythco.com.