TIME FOR A CHANGE TONIGHT … REPLACE SMOKE DETECTOR BATTERIES

MUSKOKA — Daylight saving time begins tomorrow and local fire departments are reminding residents and business owners to take time to change their smoke detector batteries as they move their clocks ahead one hour at 2 a.m.

Gravenhurst Fire Department (GFD) says in case you haven’t noticed, things are getting a bit brighter every day. We can look forward to longer days and shorter nights as a time change is coming our way.

At least until Nov. 6 when “Spring forward” … becomes “Fall back.”

This is a historical time for firefighters, says a GFD release this week.

“It is our time to promote this as an opportunity to change the batteries in your smoke alarms as well.

“Change your Clock, Change your Battery” is your reminder to make sure your smoke alarms have new batteries and are in working condition.

While at it, check the manufacture date of your alarms. If close to, or exceeding 10 years of age, replace them. This is also a good time to check your carbon monoxide alarms. After all, they save lives too.

Take the opportunity as well to have a conversation with all family members about the development and implementation of a family escape plan if you do not already have one in place.

And remember: Nobody should be without a working smoke or carbon monoxide alarm. If you are a resident of Gravenhurst and find yourself unable to purchase a smoke or carbon monoxide alarm, we strongly encourage you to contact the Gravenhurst Fire Department.

For more information, visit www.Gravenhurst.ca/fire or call 705-687-3414.

Or call your local fire department.

Gravenhurst firefighter Dave Ford wants everyone to replace their smoke detector batteries and to also check the device itself for the manufacturers’ date. if it’s 10 years old get rid of it. He also says it’s a good time to talk with family and staff about fire escape plans for your home or business.