Spring Forward, Check Your Detectors: Firefighters’ Daylight Saving Time Reminder

ZANESVILLE, OH – This Sunday, we’re springing forward, losing an hour of sleep but gaining more daylight. While many focus on adjusting their clocks, local firefighters want you to focus on something even more important.

As daylight saving time approaches, it’s a good reminder to check your smoke detectors.

Ryan Saegert, a firefighter with the Zanesville Fire Department said, “With the time change coming up, it’s a good rule of thumb to double-check your smoke detectors—give them a test, replace the batteries, and check the manufacture date. The average lifespan of smoke detectors is about 10 years, so if it’s 10 years or older, replace it. If you can’t find a date on it, replace it. They’re inexpensive, but they do save lives.”

It’s not just your smoke detectors—fire officials say carbon monoxide detectors should also be checked.

“With the carbon monoxide detectors, it’s a good rule of thumb to check the manufacturer date and the batteries. Sometimes, the batteries in both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors can get clogged with dust, dirt, and debris. So with the time change, check the batteries, check the date, and maybe take a vacuum or just blow on it to clear out the sensors. They are very sensitive and can get clogged.”

If you need a new smoke detector, the Zanesville Fire Department is offering one free per household, thanks to the ABC Wilson Fund. The program is available countywide, and anyone interested can pick one up at a Zanesville City Fire Station.