For Immediate Release

Friday, March 11, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Topsfield Fire Department Reminds Residents and Business Owners to Test Smoke Detectors During Daylight Saving Time

TOPSFIELD – Chief Ronald Giovannacci and the Topsfield Fire Department would like to remind residents and businesses that as daylight saving time approaches, to change the batteries on their clocks as well as smoke and carbon monoxide detectors this weekend.

Daylight saving time begins Sunday, March 13.

“We are reminding the community that when you move clocks forward this weekend, make sure to test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in all buildings to ensure that they are working properly,” Chief Giovannacci said. “It is imperative that residents follow the procedures that are given to ensure that everyone is safe and is properly educated.”

The National Fire Association reports that 71 percent of smoke alarms that failed to operate had missing, disconnected or dead batteries. The Topsfield Fire Department asks that all business owners not only change the batteries in their clocks, smoke or carbon monoxide detectors, but also replace the batteries on wall mounted emergency lights and exit signs. All businesses have emergency backup lighting as a safety feature to provide temporary lighting in case of power failure.

In order to keep your home safe and prevent fires, Chief Giovannacci recommends that residents follow safety tips outlined by NFPA:

• Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button. Replace the smoke alarm immediately if it doesn’t respond properly when tested.
• Replace batteries when you change your clocks.
• Make sure that everyone in the home understands the sound of the smoke alarm and knows how to respond.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they reach 10 years old.
• Smoke alarms with non-replaceable (life-long) batteries are designed to remain effective for up to 10 years. If the alarm chirps, a warning that the battery is low, replace the entire smoke alarm right away.

The replacement process is fairly simple and batteries can be purchased for most units at the local hardware store. Many fire protection companies can also provide this service.

The Topsfield Fire Department strives to continue to enhance and educate its residents of the town of Topsfield to bring awareness of fire and life safety.

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