Community Corner

Save a Life During Daylight Saving Time

Move the hands on your clock, and take steps toward a safe spring.

Don't forget to move your clocks forward one hour at 2 a.m. Sunday (and grumble about losing an hour of sleep) thanks to daylight saving time.

And while you're at it, make a couple of moves to prepare your household for a safe springtime: Check your smoke detectors and pack an earthquake preparedness kit.

Local firefighters offer these tips for smoke detectors, which should be tested once each month:

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  • Whenever your change your clocks to or from daylight saving time you should also change the batteries in your smoke detectors.
  • Install a smoke detector on each level of your home.
  • The detector should be centrally located between the bedrooms.
  • If there is more than one sleeping area, place a smoke detector outside each sleeping area.
  • If you or someone in your home is deaf or hard of hearing, consider installing an alarm that combines flashing lights, vibration and/or sound.
  • Mount smoke alarms high on walls or ceilings (remember, smoke rises). Ceiling-mounted alarms should be installed at least four inches away from the nearest wall; wall-mounted alarms should be installed four to 12 inches away from the ceiling.
  • If you have ceilings that are pitched, install the alarm near the ceiling's highest point.
  • Don't install smoke alarms near windows, doors or ducts where drafts might interfere with their operation.

And here's what should be in your earthquake preparedness kit, according to local firefighters:

  • Flashlight
  • Batteries
  • Radio
  • Water
  • Three-day supply of non-perishable food
  • Medicine
  • Extra set of keys
  • Extra clothes

There are also several suggestions for making your home safer in case there is an earthquake:

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  1. Bolt bookcases, china cabinets and other tall furniture to wall studs.
  2. Remove any unsecured items hanging over beds. Don't hang a mirror over your bed.
  3. Install strong latches on cupboards.
  4. Strap the water heater to wall studs.
  5. Identify safe spots, such as sturdy tables, desks, small rooms and hallways, where family members can go during an earthquake.
  6. Make sure everyone in the home knows phone numbers and addresses for key contacts, including out-of-area relatives or friends.


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