FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

11-08-10 245PM

You probably remembered to change your clock to standard time recently – but did you remember to change your smoke alarm battery? The Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (CCCFPD) is reminding residents to change the batteries in their homes’ smoke alarms when they change their clocks – twice each year.

Working smoke alarms save lives. According to the National Fire Protection Association, nationally, 40 percent of all home fire deaths resulted from the absence of smoke alarms. The death rate per 100 reported fires was twice as high in homes without a working smoke alarm as in home fires with this protection. In 2009, a total of six fire deaths occurred in the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District – three of which were attributed to the absence of smoke alarms.

Those without a smoke alarm in their house should take steps now to purchase and install a working smoke alarm in every bedroom and in the hallways immediately outside of bedrooms. Smoke alarms are an inexpensive safety device and can be purchased from most hardware stores. If you’re a landlord or property owner who rents or leases an apartment or residential dwelling, it’s your legal responsibility to furnish functioning smoke alarms in occupancies you rent to others.

Homeowners living within the Contra Costa County Fire District (including Antioch, Bethel Island, Brentwood, Byron, Discovery Bay, Knightsen and Oakley) may be eligible for a free smoke alarm plus installation. If you are 60 or older (or physically challenged) and do not have a working smoke alarm in your house, or your existing smoke alarm is more than 10 years old, call 925-941-3327 or visit www.cccfpd.org.

Remember – a working smoke detector can save your life.

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