SAN JUAN COUNTY, WA. October 1, 2025 – With the changing of the seasons comes an opportunity to check in on our household heating units, wood stoves, and fireplaces. This is a great time to check the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors, too. Use these helpful tips as you prepare for colder weather:
Check Batteries
- Replace your batteries every year or six months: Change the batteries in your smoke alarms at least once a year, or even more often, especially if you can associate it with turning your clocks back for Daylight Saving Time.
- Listen for the "chirp": A chirping sound from your smoke alarm indicates a low battery.
- Never borrow batteries: Do not take a battery from a smoke alarm to use elsewhere; the unit can't warn you of a fire without a working battery.
Test Your Alarms
- Monthly tests are ideal: Test your smoke alarms at least once a month by holding down the test button until you hear a loud, clear alarm sound.
- Involve the whole family: Test your alarms with your family to ensure everyone knows what the sound means and what to do.
Perform Other Maintenance
- Check the date of manufacture: Smoke alarms typically last about 10 years, so check the date of manufacture on the back and replace the entire unit if it's older than 10 years.
- Clean the alarms: Vacuum or dust your smoke detectors regularly to remove any dust buildup that could interfere with their operation.
- Practice your escape plan: Develop a fire escape plan with your family and practice it regularly to ensure everyone knows how to get out of the house quickly.
Additional Fall Fire Safety Tips
- Clean your chimney: If you have a wood-burning fireplace, have your chimney inspected and cleaned before you start using it for the cooler months.
- Check heating systems: Have your furnace or heating system checked by a professional before the cold weather sets in.
- Clear flammable materials: Rake up leaves and other flammable debris from around your home to reduce outdoor fire risks.
###