It’s time to turn the clocks ahead and lose an hour of sleep this weekend when Daylight Saving Time kicks in at 2:00 a.m. Sunday, March 11, 2018. The Vigilant Hose Company (VHC) reminds everyone to TEST their smoke alarms as they TURN their clocks forward an hour. Check smoke alarm batteries. When turning the clocks ahead, take a few minutes to replace the smoke alarm batteries if needed and push the test button to make sure the alarms are working. It’s also a great time to check carbon monoxide detectors. Install smoke alarms. If you don’t have smoke alarms, install them. At a minimum, put one on every level of the home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas. ***Reminder that New Maryland Law requires homeowners to upgrade their smoke alarms to the latest technology when replacing their older units. Smoke alarms life expectancy is 10 years. If you need assistance checking or installing a smoke alarm please contact the Vigilant Hose Company at 301-447-2728.***

This weekend is also a good time for everyone to take the following steps to make sure their household is prepared for emergencies.
•Practice an escape plan. Make sure everyone in the household knows how to get out of every room and how to get out of the home in less than two minutes.
•Get a kit. Keep disaster supplies in an easy-to-carry bag to use at home or carry in case ordered to evacuate.
•Make a plan. Have all household members plan what steps they should take if an emergency occurs.
•Be informed. Learn what emergencies can occur in the area and how officials notify residents should a disaster occur.