When the clocks fall back this weekend, Ohio fire officials say the extra hour is a good reminder to check the life‑saving devices in your home.
Key points
- Test smoke and carbon‑monoxide alarms at least once a month and replace batteries promptly.
- Involve all household members in a fire‑escape plan and designate an outdoor meeting point.
- Never leave space heaters unattended and keep flammable items away from any heating equipment.
- Do not use kitchen appliances such as ovens or ranges to heat living spaces.
Daylight Saving Time ends at 2 a.m. on Sunday, giving Ohio residents an extra hour of sleep and, according to the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal, a chance to verify that their smoke and carbon‑monoxide alarms are functioning properly.
The National Fire Protection Association notes that working smoke alarms dramatically lower the risk of dying in a house fire, yet many fire‑related deaths still occur in homes with non‑functional alarms, the fire officials warned.
Monthly alarm testing
Division of State Fire Marshal’s Fire Prevention Bureau Chief Anita Metheny recommends testing alarms monthly, replacing batteries as needed, and involving every household member in an evacuation drill and a designated meeting spot outside the home.
As temperatures drop, the State Fire Marshal’s office and the Division of Industrial Compliance also advise Ohioans to never leave space heaters unattended, keep combustible materials away from heating sources, and avoid using ovens or ranges as primary heat sources.
Winter heating precautions
Detailed safety tips, including step‑by‑step alarm testing instructions and a full list of winter heating resources, are available on the Division of State Fire Marshal’s website and the Ohio Department of Commerce’s Winter Safety Resource Page.
The guidance comes from a Yahoo.com article originally published by WKBN and reflects the latest recommendations from Ohio fire safety officials.
Reader questions
How often should I test my smoke and carbon‑monoxide alarms?
Ohio fire officials advise testing them monthly to ensure they remain operational.
What safety steps should I follow when using a space heater?
Never leave a space heater unattended, keep combustible materials at least three feet away, and use the heater on a stable, non‑flammable surface.
Source: yahoo.com