Check your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms as clocks spring forward

As residents prepare to set their clocks forward one hour this weekend for daylight saving time, Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services reminds everyone that this is also the perfect time to check smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms. 

A working smoke alarm provides early warning in case of a fire. A functioning CO alarm detects dangerous levels of carbon monoxide, an invisible, odourless gas that can be fatal. 

Residents are encouraged to:

• Test smoke and CO alarms monthly.
• Replace batteries at least once a year or whenever the low-battery warning sounds. 
• Install smoke alarms on every level of the home, in every bedroom and outside sleeping areas. 
• Replace smoke alarms every 10 years and CO alarms according to manufacturer guidelines. 

Take a few minutes to ensure everyone in your home recognizes the sound of the alarms and knows what to do in an emergency. This is also a good time to review your fire escape plan, inspect fire extinguishers and ensure everyone knows how to use them.  

Alarms should never be disabled or ignored. If an alarm sounds, get outside immediately and call 9-1-1. 

For more information on smoke alarms, visit https://canadasafetycouncil.org/smoke-alarms-save-lives/  

For more fire prevention tips, visit Lethbridge.ca/fire 

For Public Inquiries:
Call or chat with 311 | Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.