Turn and Test 2020

By Jennifer Astion

On November 1, 2020 folks in the Pacific Northwest will turn their clocks back one hour. This annual event is a good time to remember that home fires caused by cooking and heating equipment are more common in cold weather and during the holidays.

As we prepare to “fall back,” remember to prepare your household.

First, install smoke alarms on every level of your home. Place them inside and outside bedrooms and sleeping areas.

Test existing smoke alarms to make sure they are working. Replace batteries at least once a year. Perform the same steps with carbon monoxide alarms.

Next, practice your home fire escape plan. Include at least two ways to get out of every room. Select a meeting spot at a safe distance away from your home. Practice your plan until everyone can escape in two minutes or less.

If you have children, use these additional Red Cross safety tips:

• Teach your children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.

• Practice waking up to smoke alarms, low crawling and meeting outside. 
• Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1. 

For more information, visit redcross.org/homefires or download the free Red Cross Emergency App for your smartphone.