EMFD Commissioners: Change Your Clocks, Change Your Batteries

As we transition to Standard Time this weekend by turning our clocks back, the East Meadow Fire District Board of Commissioners urges residents to check and replace the batteries in their smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms.

• Change Your Clocks, Change Your Batteries:

Use the time change as a reminder to test and replace smoke and CO alarm batteries, if needed. Smoke and CO detectors are required by law for all residences.

• Check Expiration Dates:

Inspect your smoke and CO alarms for the manufacturing date and replace the unit if it’s over 10 years old. New smoke and CO alarms do not have replaceable batteries and come with 10-year lifespan, after which they must be replaced.

• Test Monthly:

Press the test button on your smoke and CO alarms once a month to ensure they are functioning properly.

• Plan Your Escape:

Practice your fire escape plan with your family and ensure everyone knows two ways out of each room.

“Working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are proven life savers, so take a few minutes this weekend to ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are in good working order,” said Commissioner John J. Priest, Chairman of the Board of Fire Commissioners.

If your smoke or CO alarm goes off, please call the East Meadow Fire Department’s emergency number: 516-542-0576.

For additional fire and home safety tips, please visit eastmeadowfd.com and click the “fire safety” tab.

The East Meadow Fire Department, which covers East Meadow and parts of Levittown and Westbury (Salisbury), always looks for new members to join their ranks as firefighters or emergency medical personnel; no experience is necessary. The fire department provides the training required. There are numerous benefits associated with volunteering, including tax breaks, college scholarships, annual health checkups, life insurance, and a service award pension program, all at no cost. For more information on volunteering with the East Meadow Fire Department, visit www.eastmeadowfd.com or call 516-542-4565.