Turn Clocks Ahead This Weekend, Check Batteries in Smoke Detectors

Iowans are reminded to set their clocks ahead an hour before hitting the hay Saturday night with Daylight Saving Time beginning Sunday morning at 2 o’clock.

Home safety expert Andrew Beckett says it’s the traditional time to check the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, though it could also be time to change out the devices themselves.

Studies find the risk of dying in a fire is cut by 50% if there’s a working smoke alarm in the house. 

Beckett adds it’s also a good time to stock an emergency kit in case the power or water goes out.

Beckett says your emergency kit should also include flashlights, batteries, and first aid kits. You should also check the fire extinguishers in the house to make sure they’re fully charged and ready.