The clock changed, but an old smoke alarm may need more than a new battery

With the fall time change behind us, Lubbock households have a useful reminder to check smoke alarms. The U.S. Fire Administration says alarms should be tested monthly and generally replaced 10 years from their manufacture date.

A fresh battery does not reset an alarm’s age. Check the date on the unit and follow the manufacturer’s instructions, particularly for alarms with sealed batteries. Those models are maintained differently from units with a replaceable battery, and the entire alarm may need replacement when its service life ends.

Federal guidance recommends alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area and on every level of the home. Lubbock’s residential fire inspection checklist also identifies working detectors in sleeping rooms and outside sleeping areas as important requirements.

Do not remove a battery because cooking sets off an alarm. Use the unit’s hush feature and address the cause according to its instructions. Residents who need help understanding installation options can contact Lubbock Fire Rescue’s public education staff. Working alarms and a household escape plan deserve attention before an emergency.

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