Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms This Weekend, Daylight Savings Ends

With the end of daylight saving time approaching this Sunday, March 12, the New Jersey Division of Fire Safety (DFS) is reminding residents to take the time to check their smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms. The DFS recommends that everyone use the switch to daylight saving time as a reminder to ensure that these life-saving devices are in proper working order.

The DFS is stressing the importance of functioning smoke and CO alarms and is urging residents to take 10 minutes to check their alarms to ensure their families and homes are protected. According to Division of Fire Safety Director and State Fire Marshal Richard Mikutsky, a home fire can quickly become deadly if a working smoke alarm is not present to alert occupants.

Mikutsky advises residents to install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of the home, including the basement. Smoke alarms with non-replaceable batteries are designed to remain effective for up to 10 years. If the alarm chirps, warning that the battery is low, replace the entire smoke alarm right away. Be sure the smoke alarm includes the label of a recognized testing laboratory. Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years, and it is recommended to replace them with 10-year sealed battery models.

In addition to checking smoke and CO alarms, Mikutsky also stresses the importance of creating and practicing a fire escape plan. According to Mikutsky, it is important to know at least two ways out of your home, if possible, and to make sure all doors and windows leading outside open easily. Have an outside meeting place at a safe distance from the home where everyone should meet. Practice your home fire drill at night and during the day with everyone in your home twice a year. Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can't help them, and close doors behind you as you leave.

It is important to note that as of January 1, 2019, the New Jersey Uniform Fire Code (UFC) requires a certificate of smoke alarm compliance before any person may sell, lease, or change the occupancy of any one-family or two-family dwelling in the state. The owner of the property may only obtain a certificate of compliance through the municipality having jurisdiction over the home's location. A smoke alarm certificate is valid for six months from the date of issue.

A homeowner or property renter must install a smoke alarm on each floor of a residential dwelling, including the basement, common stairwells, and hallways, and a maximum of 10 feet outside of each separate sleeping area. The law does not require the interconnection of smoke alarms. Alarms may use battery power or operate on 120-volt house current.

The Division of Fire Safety serves as the central fire service agency in the state and is responsible for the development and enforcement of the State Uniform Fire Code, as well as engaging the public on community risk reduction strategies, assisting in fire department preparedness, and conducting firefighter training programs.