From the office of the state Fire Commissioner:

Daylight saving time begins this weekend. Make it a tradition to change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors when you’re changing your clocks.

REMEMBER: Working smoke and CO alarms save lives. Test your alarms monthly and replace batteries regularly. Learn more

Harrisburg, PA – Pennsylvania State Fire Commissioner is encouraging citizens to change the batteries in their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors while changing their clocks for this weekend's "spring forward" time change.

Often called "the silent killer," carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, tasteless gas that can incapacitate victims before they are aware they have been exposed. Sources include wood-burning fireplaces and stoves, gas-fired fireplaces, appliances, grills and generators, and motor vehicles.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are often mistaken for the flu and include nausea, headaches, dizziness, disorientation and fatigue.

Newer models of smoke alarms marketed as having long-lasting batteries may not need to have their batteries replaced, but thousands of homeowners still use models that use standard batteries that must be replaced regularly.

No matter what type of smoke alarms are used in a home, they should be tested monthly – including hard-wired units connected to the home's electrical system. Homeowners unsure of how to maintain or install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms can call their local fire service for advice.

Home Fire Safety Information

The Office of the State Fire Commissioner (OSFC) wants to reduce home fire deaths by creating awareness about home fires and sharing important safety tips:

Understanding Fire
Daily Fire Safety
Smoke Alarms
Escape Planning
Portable Fire Extinguishers
Candle Fire Safety
Smoking Fire Safety
Home Rooms Safety
Electrical Fire Safety
Burn Injuries
Winter Fire Safety
Kitchen Fire Safety