OLYMPIA — Nov. 1 marked the end of Daylight-Saving Time. As clocks are moved back one hour, please use this time as a reminder to replace the batteries in your smoke alarms and refresh fire safety practices within your home.
According to the United States Fire Administration, half of all residential fires occur between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. when most residents are asleep. In 2025, there were 51 fire fatalities in places where working smoke alarms should have been installed. Of those deaths, 30 occurred in places without operating alarms noted by the responding fire department. Due to changes in building materials and an increase in flammable household items, the time to escape a residential fire can be as low as 1-2 minutes. Working smoke alarms provide early notification which alerts you and your family to an emergency so that you can evacuate in a timely manner.
The State Fire Marshal's Office offers the following safety tips:
Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms on every level of your home, and outside sleeping areas.
Test all smoke and CO alarms at least once a month.
Replace the 9-volt batteries in battery-operated smoke alarms at least once a year.
Replace smoke and CO alarms within the timeline established by the manufacturer's guidelines.
If your smoke or CO alarm sounds, immediately exit the home and do not re-enter the premises. Once outside, call 911 or your local fire department.
Never use generators inside homes, garages, or basements.
If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, seek medical attention immediately.
If possible, install interconnected carbon monoxide alarms throughout the home.
For more information, contact the State Fire Marshal’s Office at (360) 596-3904.
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