Table of Contents
Daylight Saving Time begins this Sunday, March 8, at 2 a.m. local time — and fire safety experts urge residents to use the time change as a reminder to test smoke alarms and replace batteries.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, roughly three out of five fire deaths occur in homes with no working smoke alarms. Homes with functioning alarms reduce the risk of dying in a fire by 60%.
Knowing what your alarm is telling you matters. Three loud beeps mean smoke or fire — get out, call 9-1-1 and stay out. A single chirp every 30 to 60 seconds means the battery is low and needs replacing. If chirping continues after a fresh battery is installed, the unit has reached the end of its life and must be replaced. All smoke alarms should be replaced after 10 years.
The NFPA recommends installing alarms in every sleeping room, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement. Mount alarms on the ceiling or high on a wall, and keep them at least 10 feet from the stove to reduce false alarms. Interconnected alarms — where all units sound when one triggers — offer the broadest protection. Test alarms at least once a month by pressing the test button.
Residents who are deaf or hard of hearing can use special alarms equipped with strobe lights and bed shakers. Bedside alert devices that respond to alarm sounds are also available.
Alexandria residents who need a smoke alarm or want an Alexandria Fire Department staff member to check the alarms in their single-family home can request a free smoke alarm installation through the AFD at alexandriava.gov/Fire.
Weekend Daylight
Saturday, March 7 Sunrise: 6:31 a.m. | Sunset: 6:07 p.m. | Daylight: 11 hours, 36 minutes
Sunday, March 8 (Clocks spring forward 1 hour at 2 a.m.) Sunrise: 7:29 a.m. | Sunset: 7:08 p.m. | Daylight: 11 hours, 38 minutes
