In recent years, 3/5 of America's home-fire deaths have occurred in homes without smoke detectors, and 1/2 of all fire deaths happen at night. Investing in an inexpensive smoke detector can mean the difference between life and death.

• Test the batteries once a month.
• Replace any battery too weak to sound the alarm.
• Most detectors "chirp" when the battery is low.
• Don't place your detector in kitchens, bathrooms or garages, where cooking fumes, steam, or exhaust can set off the alarm when there is no fire.
• Smoke detectors have a life expectancy of 10 years. Replace any detector that is more than 10 years old.
• Develop and practice a family escape plan!
• Change batteries twice each year when the clocks change. NEVER DISABLE YOUR SMOKE DETECTOR BY REMOVING THE BATTERY!
  
  If you require assistance in purchasing or installing a smoke detector, or just have questions, call the Fire Department at (630) 833-5350 Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Change your clocks; Change your batteries!