The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service is encouraging everyone to change and test their smoke alarm batteries this weekend when they change their clocks.

It's not apparent when your smoke alarm battery stops working, so the only way to find out is by testing it. The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) encourages you to take an extra moment while you're changing clocks to put in fresh batteries and test your smoke alarm.

Recent statistics show that families are four times more likely to die in a fire if their smoke alarm isn't working.

To keep yourself and your loved ones safe, WFPS encourages you to follow these steps:

  • A working smoke alarm buys you valuable time. Get out and call 911.
  • You should have one smoke alarm on every level and outside the sleeping areas. Don't forget the basement.
  • Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years. There is a manufacturing date on the back of the alarm.
  • Disposable batteries should be replaced every time you change the clocks.
  • You should test your smoke alarm monthly.
  • Make sure everyone in your house knows what to do in a fire and have a planned escape route.