To help ensure battery operated smoke detectors are working properly, change the batteries when you change your clocks.

The Bossier City Fire Department is recommending residents change the batteries in their home smoke alarms when setting their clocks back one hour when daylight savings time ends this weekend at 2 a.m. Sunday, November 6. Doing so at each time change is a good way to make sure their battery operated smoke detectors have adequate power all year round. According to a study by the National Fire Protection Association, during 2005 to 2009, roughly two-thirds of home fire deaths resulted from fires in properties without working smoke alarms. The NFPA recommends:

• Install smoke alarms inside every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home, including the basement.
• Replace all smoke alarms every 10 years or sooner if they do not respond properly when tested.
• Test all smoke alarms at least once a month by using the test button.

The Bossier City Fire Department also urges residents to develop and practice a fire escape plan so that everyone in the home knows what to do when a smoke alarm sounds.

Persons living within the city limits of Bossier City in need of smoke alarms may obtain them free of charge from the Bossier City Fire Department's Fire Prevention Bureau by calling 741- 8704. This office can also provide information on fire escape plans and other fire safety issues.

###