Remember to fall back this weekend for the end of Daylight Saving Time.

When setting your clocks back one hour on Halloween night, Saturday, October 31st, test your smoke alarms, review your family’s emergency escape plans, and replace any emergency supplies that may expire soon.

A smoke alarm with a dead or missing battery is the same as having no smoke alarm at all. Take care of your smoke alarms according to the manufacturer instructions, and follow these tips from the U.S. Fire Administration:

• Smoke alarm powered by a nine-volt battery – Test the alarm monthly. Replace the batteries at least once every year. Replace the entire smoke alarm every 10 years.
• Smoke alarm powered by a 10-year lithium (or “long-life”) battery- Test the alarm monthly. Since you cannot (and should not) replace the lithium battery, replace the entire smoke alarm according to the manufacturer’s instructions and dispose of it properly at a household hazardous waste site or by sending it back to the manufacturer.
• Smoke alarms hardwired into your home’s electrical system – Test the alarm monthly. Replace the backup battery at least once every year. Replace the entire smoke alarm every 10 years.

Review your family emergency escape plans to ensure they are up to date. Replace any emergency supplies that will expire within the next six months and use the old supplies before they expire. Some examples of items that can expire are:

• Water;
• Food;
• Prescription medications;
• First-aid supplies; and
• Batteries.

For more information on emergency plans or supplies, contact FCPC Emergency Management Department at 715-478-4428.