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Spring forward with home safety measures

Daylight Saving Time began Sunday, when clocks moved ahead an hour at 2 a.m.

As you adjust your clocks, remember to replace batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. The National Fire Protection Association recommends changing the batteries in your alarms every six months. Alarm sensors also wear out, so it’s recommended you replace smoke alarms at least every 10 years and carbon monoxide detectors every five to seven years.

The NFPA offers these tips, accounting for the multiple types of smoke alarms on the market and their varying battery requirements:

— Smoke alarms with non-replaceable 10-year 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.

— Smoke alarms with any other type of battery need a new battery at least once a year. If that alarm chirps, warning the battery is low, replace the battery right away.

— When replacing a battery, follow manufacturer’s list of batteries on the back of the alarm or manufacturer’s instructions. Manufacturer’s instructions are specific to the brand and model that must be used. The smoke alarm may not work properly if a different kind of battery is used.

It’s also important, as the spring storm and flood season draws near, to review overall safety checklists.

“Daylight saving time is a good time to reset and get ready as we get closer to the start of severe weather season,” acting Wisconsin Emergency Management Administrator Greg Engle said. “We urge everyone to take steps to protect their families and homes from possible emergencies or unexpected disasters.”

ReadyWisconsin recommends every family have an emergency plan in place in the event of a natural disaster or any emergency. If you already have a plan, spring is a great time to review it with family members and make any necessary updates.

It is also a good time to assemble or restock a home or vehicle emergency kit. Check for expired products or items that may need to be replaced. Home emergency kits should include items that are needed if someone is stuck at home for a few days, or to grab-and-go if you need to leave the area.

For a home emergency kit, it is important to have a three-day supply of non-perishable food and water. ReadyWisconsin recommends having enough water stored to provide a gallon per person, per day over a three-day period. Other items in a home emergency kit should include:

— Flashlight;

— Extra batteries;

— First aid kit;

— Whistle, horn, or another device to signal for help;

— Photocopy of identification, such as a driver’s license;

— List of emergency contacts;

— Personal medical information and medications.

Do not forget about your pets. A pet emergency kit should include many of the same items needed for the human members of your family. Pet kits should include:

— Identification tags on collars;

— Medications, immunization records;

— Leashes or pet carrier;

— Current photos of you with your pets.

For more tips on emergency preparedness or what to stock in an emergency kit, go to http://readywisconsin.wi.gov. You can also follow ReadyWisconsin on Facebook.

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