Time to ‘spring forward’ and replace smoke, CO alarm batteries: London Fire Department

We’re about to lose an hour of sleep on Sunday, thanks to Daylight Saving Time.

But now’s a good time to change the clocks and to also practice fire safety, according to the London Fire Department.

Hepditch also reminds the public to check the expiry date on alarms.

“Some smoke alarms have the dates on the outside of the alarm, others will have it on the inside,” he said.

“Take a look on the inside where the battery is installed, or where it’s connected through the electrical plug.”

Smoke alarms typically expire after 10 years, and carbon monoxide alarms last for eight to 10 years.

3:55 Daylight saving sleep tips for kids

When installing new alarms, the deputy chief says certain alarms must be placed in certain locations.

“Smoke alarms need to be installed on every floor level of the home or outside sleeping areas. Carbon monoxide alarms need to be installed adjacent to the sleeping areas within the home as well.”

Hepditch reiterates the ‘look while you cook’ rule to avoid starting a fire in the kitchen.

He also recommends families to create a fire escape plan and practice throughout the year.

Daylight Saving Time begins Sunday, March 8 at 2 a.m.