When setting clocks forward an hour this Sunday, March 11 to mark the start of daylight saving time, some Fire Departments recommend to also change the batteries in your home smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. 

The National Fire Protection Association reports that 71% of smoke alarms that failed to operate had missing, disconnected or dead batteries. The NFPA provides the following guidelines for smoke alarms:

• Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.
• Make sure everyone in the home recognizes the sound of the smoke alarm and knows how to respond.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.
• Replace the smoke alarm immediately if it doesn’t respond properly when tested.
• Smoke alarms with non-replaceable (long-life) batteries are designed to remain effective for up to 10 years. If the alarm chirps a warning that the battery is low, replace the entire smoke alarm right away.
• For smoke alarms requiring any other type of battery, replace batteries at least twice a year. If the alarm chirps, replace only the battery.

 
Most Fire Departments also reminds citizens of the following safety precautions: 
•           Install a smoke alarm on every level of the home
•           Ensure smoke alarms are clean and free of dust
•           Dial 911 in case of any emergency
 
Check if your Fire Department provides battery-powered smoke alarms free of charge for senior citizens and residents in need.

Carbon Monoxide Safety Tips 

• Install a carbon monoxide detector.
• Have a HVAC technician check your heating equipment annually.
• Keep the area surrounding your gas appliances clear from clutter or trash.

Carbon monoxide detectors may be helpful in your home or business. But remember, a carbon monoxide detector should never be substituted for using equipment safely—which includes having your heating and cooking appliances inspected yearly by a trained professional. Make sure you install one on each level of your home. Locate them in hallways near bedrooms but at least 15 ft. away from fuel-burning appliances.

Now that you are done, you are ready for spring!

Iveth Caruso
Providing the most professional, dedicated, informative and loyal service you can find in Real Estate!

It’s official: The programmable thermostat is the VCR of our day. Why? We think they’re too complicated. According to a study by the Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, nearly 90% of Americans say they’ve rarely (or never) programmed their thermostat because they’re not sure how to do it.
But it’s really not that hard, and it’s definitely worth doing because it can save you up to 15% a year on energy costs.
The first step is to pick the thermostat that best suits your scheduling needs so you can “set it and forget it,” see how.