As Daylight Saving Time takes effect, fire officials urge smoke alarm checks

BROWN DEER (WITI) -- As the clocks were moved forward an hour on Sunday, March 10th for Daylight Saving Time, fire officials urge folks to check smoke detectors and replace batteries if needed.

A fire on Milwaukee's south side a few weeks back later claimed the life of a young boy.

Milwaukee firefighters say tragedies like this fire can be prevented if residents are alerted to fires through working smoke detectors.

"We need to ensure the citizens of the city have working smoke detectors in their homes," MFD Assistant Chief of Operations Dan Lipski said.

Just this year alone, there have been more than 630 fatalities in house fires nationwide.

On Sunday, March 10th, as clocks were moved forward, firefighters stressed the importance of having a working smoke detector.

"Our slogan is change your clock, change your battery, and the battery in your smoke detector is a real simple investment that can save a life," North Shore Fire Captain Jim Mayer said.

Mayer says smoke detector batteries should be changed at least twice a year, and alarms should be placed on every level of a home -- especially outside bedrooms.

"When you go to sleep at night, one of the first things to sleep is our nose. The smoke can kill you with a couple of breaths taking into their lungs. People think they may have time to escape," Mayer said.

Fire officials say this bi-annual check should also include replacing batteries in carbon monoxide detectors.

"Carbon monoxide detectors as well are also critical because carbon monoxide you can`t smell it. It's very different to detect. It can sneak up on you -- give you flu-like symptoms at first, but if I reaches a certain level it can be lethal," Mayer said.

Fire officials say a quick check of these devices can possibly mean a life-saving alert.

Fire departments offer free smoke detectors and/or batteries for those who do not have the means to afford one.