It’s time to “fall back” at the end of Daylight Savings Time. This Saturday before you go to sleep, move your clocks one hour backward. Daylight Savings Time ends at 2 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 1. and it’s a perfect time to change the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
The New Mexico State University Fire Department wants to remind you that it is important to check your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detectors every month to ensure they are in working condition and change the batteries twice a year. It’s easy to remember if you do it when the time changes.
However, if you do not have smoke alarms or carbon monoxide detectors in your home off campus, we strongly advise you purchase them from your local home improvement store.
Who does this impact? These alarms are installed for your well-being and to notify you of a smoke or carbon monoxide filled atmosphere.
What is smoke? The visible vapor and gases given off by a burning or smoldering substance, especially the gray, brown, or blackish mixture of gases and suspended carbon particles resulting from the combustion of wood, peat, coal or other organic matter.
What is carbon monoxide? It is a colorless, odorless gas and byproduct of incomplete combustion.
Where are my detectors located? Normal locations for alarms are usually high on side walls or on ceilings. Smoke travels upwards first due to heat, detectors need to be in high areas for early detection.
When do I check my detectors? Alarms should be checked monthly, using the test button on the side or face of the detector, to ensure they are functioning properly. Dead batteries are a common detector malfunction. Replacing the batteries will help keep your home and family safe.
Why do I need smoke detectors? Smoke alarms notify the occupant of a hazardous smoke-filled atmosphere. This can prevent the occupant from harm and let people know to get to a safe environment.
Should I also have a carbon monoxide detector? Carbon monoxide detectors are highly recommended. They offer warnings about unburned gases that may otherwise remain undetected until it is too late.
Always notify the fire department in case of emergency and when your smoke detector is activated.
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