Time to Change your Clocks and the Batteries in all Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

HAMILTON, ON – Clocks will fall back one hour at 2am on November 3 and the Hamilton Fire Department is recommending residents install new batteries in their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms when they change their clocks.           

“In order for smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to do their job, they need to have working batteries,” explained Chief Fire Prevention Officer Pete deBoer. “Once a year, old batteries should be replaced with new batteries. When you change your clocks on November 3, the Hamilton Fire Department wants everyone to take the time to install new batteries in all alarms.”            

To survive a fire, occupants need to know one exists. Working smoke alarms provide this protection. They are required on every storey of the home and outside of all sleeping areas. For added protection, it is recommended to also install smoke alarms inside all bedrooms.  

Carbon monoxide alarms must be installed outside all sleeping areas if your home has a fuel-burning appliance, fireplace or attached garage.   

Tampering with or removing the batteries from your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms is against the law. Failure to comply with the Fire Code can result in a ticket for $360 or a fine of up to $50,000.              

For more information contact the Hamilton Fire Department – Fire Prevention Division at 905 546-2424 ext. 1380, weekdays between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm for more information on smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in your home or visit our web-site at www hamilton.ca/fire.