The Howard County fire department is reminding residents to replace the batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors Sunday when turning clocks back an hour to Standard Time. The time changes at 2 a.m. Sunday.
Smoke alarms should be tested and cleaned each month, fire officials said. At least one smoke alarm is needed on each floor, but one in every room is recommended. Alarms that are more than 10 years old should be replaced.
Fire Chief Joseph Herr said families also should prepare a fire safety kit that includes flashlights and fresh batteries.
Howard residents who need smoke alarms but cannot afford them can receive free alarms by contacting the Department of Fire and Rescue Services at 410-313-6040.
