A Word From The Publisher
Spring Forward

Now that the first crocuses have put their noses above ground and flocks of robins have been seen hunting worms, we're willing to believe that spring is finally here.

With the coming of spring comes another annual event - the commencement of Daylight Savings Time. The time will officially change at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 9th, when clocks will move forward one hour.

In the last few years homeowners have been urged to check their smoke detectors twice a year, on the time changes and to change their batteries.

The National Fire Protection Association has offered the following tips on keeping smoke detectors working properly:

-Test smoke alarms/detectors at least once a month by using the alarm's "test button". Do not use an open flame.

-Clean the units by vacuuming or dusting in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

-Install new batteries in all smoke alarms/detectors at least once a year on the day you change your clocks or when the alarm chirps (warning that the battery is dying).

-Keep batteries in smoke alarms/detectors; do not borrow them for other purposes. Nuisance activations can be addressed by moving a smoke alarm/detector farther away from kitchen smoke or bathroom steam and by more frequent cleaning. If the problem persists, replace the unit.

-Don't paint smoke alarm/detectors.

Meg Morgan Norris

Publisher