Time to fall back, daylight saving ends this weekend: Do this when you change your clocks

Daylight saving time comes to an official end at 2 a.m. on Sunday, November 5, or more precisely, at 1 a.m. when the clocks fall back. This time change ushers in shorter days and darker evening commutes for most of the country.

As you adjust your clocks by turning them back an hour this weekend, you are encouraged to take a moment to ensure your smoke alarms are in top shape. Safety experts recommend checking the batteries in your smoke alarms at least twice a year. The semi-annual time change it serves as a perfect reminder to do so.

The State Department of Health’s official website emphasizes that missing, dead, or disconnected batteries are the primary reasons for smoke alarm failures. They recommend replacing the batteries at least once a year.

According to a survey conducted by ServiceMaster Restore, only 57% of Americans adhere to these best practices for smoke alarm maintenance.

Most traditional smoke detectors feature a cover that can be either hinged or lifted off. Typically, a counterclockwise twist will release the cover. Once the cover is off, you’ll find the battery, usually clipped in place. Ensure the battery is correctly oriented before closing the cover when replacing it. You can verify the correct installation by pressing the test button; you should hear a chirping sound if it’s working correctly.

If you’re uncertain about the placement of your smoke alarms or need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact your local fire department.

So far this year, the U.S. Fire Administration reports that 56 Georgians have tragically lost their lives in residential fires.