Time to Change your Clocks and Smoke Alarm Batteries

The Brentwood Fire and & Rescue Department reminds everyone to change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms when you set the clocks back on Sunday, November 7, 2021.  Daylight Saving time officially ends at 2 a.m. Sunday when clocks should be turned backward one hour.   Sunset and sunrise will be about one hour earlier on November 7 than the day before.

“Be sure to check the manufacturers date on your alarms,” said Division Chief and Brentwood Fire Marshal Jeff Pender.  “Smoke alarms with non-replaceable lithium batteries are designed to last up to ten years, and should be considered when replacing your smoke alarms,” Pender added.  According to the National Fire Protection Association, roughly three out of five fire deaths happened in homes with no smoke alarms, or smoke alarms that were not working.  The following information is to help make sure all smoke alarms have working batteries, accounting for the multiple types of smoke alarms on the market and their varying battery requirements:

1. 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.

1. 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.

1. 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.

Brentwood Chief Pender also reminds you to close your doors while sleeping at night.  A closed door will reduce fire growth and spread, limit damage to your home, and possibly save lives.  “Remember to close bedroom doors when sleeping, close doors behind you when escaping a room or building on fire, and always keep fire doors closed,” Pender said.  You can request a free smoke alarm from the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance.  You can submit your request here if you meet the qualifications.  Any other questions, please call the Brentwood Fire and Rescue Department at (615) 371-0170.

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