Daylight savings time is here again and the Bismarck Fire Department asks residents: Is your smoke alarm still working?  A smoke alarm with a dead or missing battery is the same as having no smoke alarm at all.  A smoke alarm only works when it is properly installed and regularly tested.  Follow these tips to maintain your smoke alarms and keep your family safe.

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.

Smoke alarm that is 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.

Modern smoke alarms will emit a ‘chirp’ that will indicate a low battery or the end of service life.

For more information contact the Bismarck Fire Department at (701) 355-1400, visit our website at https://www.bismarcknd.gov/1372/Smoke-Detectors.