Fall Back This Weekend - A Simple Change That Could Save a Life
As we prepare to turn our clocks back one hour on Sunday, November 1, 2026, the Centre Hastings Fire Department is encouraging residents to make home safety part of their time change routine.
When you adjust your clocks this weekend, take a few additional minutes to check the devices that protect your family every day:
✔ Replace batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms
✔ Test each alarm to ensure it is working properly
✔ Review your family's home escape plan
✔ Check the manufacture date on your smoke alarms and replace any that are 10 years old or older
Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms provide critical early warning during an emergency. Having properly maintained alarms throughout your home can give you and your loved ones the precious time needed to react and get to safety.
Make Alarm Safety a Habit
- Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement.
- Place smoke alarms inside and outside sleeping areas.
- Install carbon monoxide alarms outside sleeping areas and on each level of your home.
- Clean alarms regularly to remove dust and debris.
- Never ignore a chirping alarm. It is telling you that attention is needed.
Have an Escape Plan
Every household should have a home escape plan and a designated meeting place outside. Practice the plan with all family members so everyone knows what to do in the event of an emergency.
Battery Disposal Reminder ♻️
Used batteries should never be placed in household garbage. Batteries can cause fires in homes, waste collection vehicles, processing facilities, and landfills. Please recycle batteries through an approved collection program.
This weekend, as you gain an extra hour of sleep, take a few moments to help protect your home and family.
Change Your Clock. Check Your Alarms. Test Your Plan.
Centre Hastings Fire Department
Committed to Prevention, Preparedness, and Community Safety 🚒