Protect your family: Change your clocks, change your batteries

As residents "spring" forward and move their clocks up one hour for daylight saving time this Sunday, March 13, the Lombard Fire Department reminds residents to change the batteries in their smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to help keep their loved ones safe.

"The bi-annual changing of time is the perfect opportunity to make sure that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are up-to-date and in working order," said Fire Marshal Perry Johnson.

Worn out or missing batteries are the most commonly cited reason for non-working smoke alarms, but changing smoke alarm batteries at least once a year, testing those alarms, and reminding others to do the same is the simplest and most effective way to reduce tragic fire injuries or deaths.

To help make sure all smoke alarms have working batteries, based on the type of smoke alarm, follow the smoke alarm safety tips below:

• Smoke alarms with non-replaceable 10-year batteries are designed to remain effective for up to 10 years. If the alarm chirps, warning that the battery is low, replace the entire smoke alarm right away.

• Smoke alarms with any other type of battery need a new battery at least once a year. If that alarm chirps, warning the battery is low, replace the battery right away.

• When replacing a battery, follow manufacturer's list of batteries on the back of the alarm or manufacturer's instructions. Manufacturer's instructions are specific to the batteries (brand and model) that must be used. The smoke alarm may not work properly if a different kind of battery is used.

A 2017 Illinois law required 10-year sealed smoke alarms be installed in all homes built before 1988 or that do not have hardwired smoke detectors by Jan. 1, 2023.

For more fire prevention information and resources, visit www.villageoflombard.org/fire or call (630) 620-5750.