At 2 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 2, daylight savings time will end and we will set our clocks back one hour. That it is a good reminder to replace smoke alarm batteries. It is also a good time to check the age of your smoke alarms. The life expectancy of a smoke alarm is 10 years. If you are unsure as to the age, it would be a good idea to replace the unit.
Smoke alarms should be in every bedroom, in the hall outside of the sleeping areas and on every level of the home. The fire marshal’s office offers free inspection of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms for one- and two-family homes in Granby. There is no cost or obligation involved. Help us keep you and your family safe—call 860-844-5321 or email firemarshal@granby-ct.gov
Fall is also a good time to prepare for the winter season:
• Have your chimneys inspected and cleaned.
• Check for overloaded extension cords. Usage should not exceed the recommended wattage. Never use space heaters with extension cords.
• Check that your house can be found by emergency teams by ensuring your house address numbers can easily be seen from the street.
• Practice a fire escape plan with your family. Identify two exits from every room, create a “Meeting Place” and instruct children on what to do in an emergency.
Other reminders:
• Never store LP gas grill propane tanks inside your home or garage.
• Do not use turkey fryers on decks or close to buildings or vehicles.
• All space heaters should be placed at least three feet from beds, curtains, or anything flammable.
If you have any questions on smoke detectors and their placement, please call the fire marshal’s office at 860-844-5321 or email firemarshal@granby-ct.gov