Time for a change...

[Tramontana]

...and not just your clocks. (not going where you thought I might?)

Seriously, use the time change tonight as a reminder to change out the batteries in your smoke detectors and CO detectors, then test each of these devices.

The National Fire Protection Agency recommends that you replace any device that is ten or more years old. If in doubt, change them out. If the plastic has turned yellow like an old computer, change 'em out.

Starting around $10 each, these are very cheap insurance against waking up dead!

Last spring we had a residential structure fire right next door, and the occupants didn't have functioning detectors. They were extremely lucky to escape with minor smoke inhalation injuries. Their three pets were not so lucky.

While you are at it, check your extinguishers, flashlights and hopefully stock a Chimfex in/near your hearth room(s).

Cheers!

 

[Tramontana]

And one more thing...

...the saying is a picture is worth thousand$.

 

[Tramontana]

Apparently I don't have much to show/say...

embed link no worky...

 

[Tramontana]

The next day...

 

[Tramontana]

So apparently I am unable to hotlink the photos, but take the time and have a look at these;

http://5280fire.com/?p=24499

http://www.rodblakneyphotography.com/p51128145/h276617a4#ha20af98

Sobering reminders, especially to those of us who like to heat with wood.

Cheers!

 

[Tramontana]

With the time change, I just remembered starting this thread a couple of years ago.

I just finished going around the house and changing out the back-up batteries in all of my smoke detectors, and testing them all.

Cheers!

 

[Wildo]

If you buy the li-ion 10 year ones they cost $25-30 dollars and pay for themselves in no time with the cost of 9v being ridiculous. You write the date and when 10 years is up or the battery is weak it starts beeping annoyingly.

 

[Tramontana]

Very good point. I was just shopping for a rate-of-rise detector to install in my garage, and just became aware of the new 10 year battery/detectors. This makes good sense for people who need to replace their out of date equipment, unfortunately they were not on the market seven years ago when I installed all new interconnected AC detectors throughout my house. When these are more than 10 years old, I will likely look into the 10 year lithium ion devices.
Of course, I presume that there are not chargers built into these li-ion devices, otherwise these could lead to starting fires from overcharging? Wouldn't that be ironic?!

 

[firefighterjake]

If you buy the li-ion 10 year ones they cost $25-30 dollars and pay for themselves in no time with the cost of 9v being ridiculous. You write the date and when 10 years is up or the battery is weak it starts beeping annoyingly.

Big proponent of these type of detectors ... and detectors with push to silence buttons for false alarms.