Setting clocks back an hour means sleeping in, changing batteries

By Aida Ahmed

Sunday, Nov. 6, 2011 | 2 a.m.

Clark County Fire and Rescue is asking residents to change the batteries in their home smoke alarms when residents turn their clocks back, in line with the end of this year's daylight saving time.

Standard time kicks in at 2 a.m., so people should turn their clocks back one hour.

The fire department takes advantage of the days when we spring forward or fall back to issue reminders to check smoke detectors.

Officials say detectors have proven to cut the number of national fire fatalities in half.

“Smoke detectors are an inexpensive and time-tested fire safety device that belong in every home,” said Clark County Fire Chief Bertral Washington.

Firefighters suggest the following:

• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area and on every level of the home.

• An ionization smoke alarm is generally more responsive to flaming fires, and a photoelectric smoke alarm is generally more responsive to smoldering fires. Use both types of alarm or a combination alarm for the best protection.

• Install smoke alarms following manufacturer’s instructions. Alarms should be high on a wall or ceiling.

• Replace the battery right away if an alarm “chirps,” indicating the battery is low.