The Birdsboro-Union Fire Department would like to take a moment to remind people to Change Your Clocks Change Your Batteries on Sunday, November 3, 2013

Many Americans have adopted the great habit of changing the batteries in their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors at the same time they change their clocks.

The dangers and reality of fire demonstrate the power, speed, and ferocity which occur when fire strikes. The need to be prepared before a fire happens is paramount!!

Please take the time to review these important fire prevention tips:

1.Have working smoke alarms in every room especially bedrooms with the exception of the kitchen and bathrooms, and on every level of your home, including the basement and attic.

2.Have working smoke alarms located directly outside of every sleeping room.

3.Test all smoke alarms at least monthly, and change the batteries when you change the clocks.

4.Many new smoke detectors come equipped with 10 year life span batteries eliminating future needs to replace 9-volt type batteries. The Birdsboro-Union Fire Department strongly recommends these types of devices rather than traditional 9- volt battery powered devices.

5.Smoke detectors should be replaced at a minimum every 10years or sooner based on manufacturers recommendations.

6.Create a fire escape plan. Make sure that children know how to react to the sound of the smoke alarms. Practice your plan frequently, especially with children in the home!

7.Never leave the stove unattended when cooking!

8.Have all home heating equipment checked by qualified personnel before using, and keep all combustibles at least 3’ away from heating equipment.

9.If you use candles, never leave them unattended or near combustibles, and always double check that they are extinguished.

10.Matches and lighters are tools for adults, not toys for children! Please keep these items out of reach of children. Educate children to the dangers of fire and the importance of knowing what to do if fire occurs.

11.Please, if you must smoke do it responsibly. Make sure all smoking materials are extinguished completely and properly, and NEVER smoke in bed or when tired!

12.Some troubled people do start fires intentionally. Be a good neighbor and watch out for each other. Report any suspicious activity immediately.

13.Have working carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home, and test batteries monthly.

Fire strikes without warning and without mercy. Fire spreads very fast! The sooner you’re aware of a fire, the sooner you can react to alert others, escape, and call 911. Please take a few moments to review the above tips, and implement your action plan to prevent fires.

“The easiest fire to put out, is the fire that you prevent”