Time to change smoke alarm batteries

Changing the clocks to daylight saving time is a good reminder to change the batteries in home smoke alarms, according to the Ventura County Fire Department.

Smoke alarms save lives if they are properly installed and in working order.

The U. S. Fire Administration reported that from 2000 to 2004, 65 percent of the deaths in home fires occurred in homes that either had no smoke alarms or the smoke alarms were not working.

The leading reasons that smoke alarms fail are missing, disconnected or dead batteries.

Here are ways, besides changing the batteries, to make sure home smoke alarms are working.

•Replace smoke alarms every 10 years. Aging smoke alarms don't operate as efficiently and are frequently responsible for "nuisance" alarms.

•Test units at least once a month. Use the "test" button on the device or an approved smoke substitute. Never use an open flame for testing.

•Periodically clean smoke alarms by following the manufacturer's instructions.

•Place smoke alarms outside each sleeping area and on each level of the home, including the basement. An alarm in the garage is a good idea too.

•Alarms should be mounted on the wall 4 to 12 inches from the ceiling.

Ceiling-mounted alarms should be placed 4 inches from the nearest wall. On a vaulted ceiling, mount the alarm at the highest point of the ceiling.

•Make sure everyone in the household knows the sound the alarm makes and what to do if they hear it.

•Have an escape plan for the home and designate a meeting place outside the home to account for family members during an emergency.

•Never "borrow" smoke alarm batteries or disconnect them from the device.

•Never paint a smoke alarm. For more information, call (805) 389-9710.