News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 2, 2024

Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department Reminds Residents to “Change Your Clocks, Check Your Alarms” This Daylight Saving Time

Ocean Pines, MD – As clocks fall back this Sunday, the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department urges all residents to make the most of this time by ensuring their homes are safe. Along with adjusting clocks, residents should check their smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms to ensure they are working properly. “Change Your Clocks, Check Your Alarms” is a simple reminder that could make all the difference in a life-threatening situation.

Each year, millions of homes are protected by smoke alarms and CO detectors. These devices are among the most important safety tools in any household. However, they need regular maintenance to ensure effectiveness in an emergency. Captain Enste of the Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department emphasizes, “Taking just a few minutes to check alarms and change batteries can help prevent tragedies.”

Key Tips for Alarm Maintenance:

1. Test Alarms Monthly – Push the test button on smoke and CO alarms to ensure they are operational.
2. Replace Batteries Twice a Year – When changing your clocks, also replace the batteries in alarms to avoid unexpected failures.
3. Replace Older Alarms – Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years, and CO alarms should be replaced every 5–7 years.
4. Install Alarms in Key Locations – Ensure there is a smoke alarm in each bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on every level of your home. CO alarms should be installed near sleeping areas.

The Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department is committed to the safety of all community members. If you need assistance with your alarm systems or have questions about alarm safety, please contact the department at (443) 614-2717 or visit us at 911 Ocean Parkway.

“Daylight Saving Time is an ideal reminder to do these checks,” Captain Enste adds. “Working alarms save lives. Let’s all do our part to keep our homes and loved ones safe.”

About Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department

The Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department serves the Ocean Pines community with dedication, providing emergency response, fire prevention, and public safety services. Our team is committed to the safety and well-being of our residents and visitors through education, training, and community engagement.

For more information, please contact:
Joe Enste, Public Information Officer
Ocean Pines Volunteer Fire Department
Email: Jenste@opvfd.com
Phone: (443) 614-2717