While you’re changing your clocks, make sure to check those smoke alarms

ST. GEORGE — There are an average of 346,000 home fires every single year in the United States. Those fires result in about 2,600 annual deaths and 11,000 injuries. However, working smoke alarms can cut the risk of dying in a home fire by half.

While you’re already going around your house changing your clocks for daylight saving time, make it a habit of checking your smoke alarms too.

The Red Cross has some tips for keeping your home fire safe:

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including inside and outside bedrooms and sleeping areas. Test alarms monthly and replace the batteries at least once a year if your model requires it.
• Replace smoke alarms that are 10 years or older. That’s because the sensor becomes less sensitive over time. Check the date of your smoke alarms and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Practice your two-minute escape plan. Make sure everyone in your household can get out in less than two minutes. Include at least two ways to get out from every room and select a meeting spot a safe distance away from your home. For example, a neighbor’s home or a landmark like a specific tree in your front yard.
• Teach children what a smoke alarm sounds like. Talk about fire safety and what to do in an emergency.

Having a fire escape plan and keeping your smoke alarms operational can keep you and your family safe in an emergency.

“As many as seven people die in this country every day from a home fire, but smoke alarms cut your risk in half,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “Protect your household this weekend. Turn your clocks forward and test your smoke alarms.”

Check out the Red Cross website for more tips on home fire safety.

Data from the National Fire Protection Association.