The Hinsdale Fire Department urges residents to change their smoke alarm and carbon monoxide (CO) detector batteries when changing their clocks for Daylight Saving Time on Sunday, November 6. Clocks "fall back" at 2:00 AM on Sunday morning. 

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that a home fire death occurs somewhere in the nation approximately every three hours. In fact, the NFPA also reported last year 71% of smoke alarms which failed to operate had missing, disconnected or dead batteries, making it important to take this time each year to check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Install these alarms in all sleeping rooms, hallways that lead to sleeping areas, basements and each additional level of your home. Smoke alarms should be mounted on the ceiling 4 inches from the wall; wall mounts should be 4-12 inches from the ceiling. Do not install near draft areas (windows, vents, etc.). When installing a new detector, write the date installed on the back of the unit. Call the Hinsdale Fire Department non-emergency line at 630-789-7060 if you are unsure about placement.

This is also a great time to review home fire safety practices with family members. Your family escape plan should include two ways out of the home and a meeting place once everyone is out. Be sure to take the time to practice this plan at least three or four times a year. Also, don’t forget to include reviewing fire safety practices for your children who are in college and living in college housing units. If you have any questions or need further information, please feel free to contact the Hinsdale Fire Department at (630) 789-7060 or fire@villageofhinsdale.org.