Fire department: Keep up on your smoke detectors

McCOOK, Nebraska -- Having witnessed on numerous occasions a working smoke detector being the difference between life and death, the McCook fire department has asked that residents changing their clocks back this weekend, in accordance with daylight savings time, also take the time to change the batteries in their smoke detectors.

Firefighters encourage residents to choose a specific date each year to replace their smoke detector batteries and follow a few simple safety tips.

* Avoid using rechargeable batteries.

* Replace detectors every 10 years, they have a 30 percent failure rate after that time.

* Wired in smoke detectors also require testing and have a failure rate.

* Test your detectors monthly.

* Maintain your detector by gently vacuuming the exterior or wipe with a soft cloth.

For more information contact the City of McCook Fire Department at 308-345-5710.