Test a smoke alarm
A smoke alarm with a dead battery looks exactly like a working one. Ten seconds a month tells them apart.
- Press and hold the test button on the alarm until it sounds.
- Check the manufacture date on the back. Replace the whole alarm once it's 10 years old.
Tip: Change batteries at least once a year (when the clocks change is easy to remember). Sealed 10-year alarms don't need battery changes.
Try it now: Test the alarm nearest to you now, and put a monthly reminder in your phone.
Next crumbs
- 🔧 Home & carUse a fire extinguisher with PASSYou won't have time to read the label. Four letters cover it: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep.
- 🔧 Home & carBring a dead outlet back with the GFCI resetBathroom or kitchen outlet stopped working? A safety outlet nearby probably tripped.
- 🔧 Home & carCheck your engine oil with the dipstickChecking the oil takes a paper towel and a minute. Do it before a long drive, not after a warning light.