State fire marshal issues smoke alarm reminder

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office is reminding residents to replace the batteries in home smoke alarms when adjusting clocks for daylight saving time.

The office issued the reminder as clocks moved forward one hour at 2 a.m. Sunday for the start of daylight saving time. Officials said the seasonal time change serves as a convenient reminder for households to check smoke alarms and ensure they are functioning properly.

Working smoke alarms provide early warning during a fire and are considered a key component of home fire safety, according to the agency. The office also encouraged residents to check in with family members, friends and neighbors, particularly older adults, to confirm their alarms are operational.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office recommends installing smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas and on each level of a home. Alarms should be interconnected so that when one activates, all alarms sound.

Residents should test smoke alarms monthly using the test button and install units according to manufacturer instructions. Officials advise placing alarms on ceilings or high on walls and keeping them at least 10 feet from stoves to reduce false alarms.

Smoke alarms equipped with sealed 10-year batteries are designed to last up to a decade. If one of these alarms begins chirping to indicate a low battery, the entire unit should be replaced.

The office also noted that smoke alarms designed for people who are hearing impaired are available. Some devices use strobe lights or connect to pillow or bed shakers that activate when an alarm sounds.

Fire officials also recommend closing bedroom doors at night, which can slow the spread of smoke, heat and fire.