Sometimes after a power outage, we receive questions and comments from members about their smoke alarms going off or chirping. Many smoke alarms are powered by AC (alternating current) and use a battery backup. When the power goes out some units chirp to inform you they are running out of batteries. If this happens the batteries should be changed right away.
Some other smoke alarm reminders:
- Test your alarms every month to be sure they're working properly.
- A good time to remember to change the batteries is when you change your clocks twice a year as daylight savings time begins and ends (if you hear the chirping low-battery signal, replace batteries immediately).
- Replace your alarms every 10 years; check the alarm for the manufacture date, and toss it if it’s at least 10 years old.
- Review the manufacturer’s documentation on your type of alarm.
To learn more about smoke alarms visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency website.