From Bayfield County Emergency Management Director Jan Victorson:

In these times of pandemic, it is a challenge to focus on “other” subjects related to preparedness.

I am hoping daylight saving time provides an “additional hour” to consider/complete safety checks that could help save lives during an emergency.

A few reminders:

• SMOKE ALARMS – Smoke alarms help alert you to a fire in your home. According to the National Fire Protection Association, three out of every five home fire deaths occurred when smoke alarms were either not present or were not working properly. Alarms should be tested monthly and the batteries replaced at lease once a year.
• CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS – Carbon monoxide alarms, or CO alarms, help alert you to carbon monoxide (CO) in your home. Wisconsin Health Officials report approximately 500 people are treated at hospital emergency rooms across the state annually for CO poisoning. Many of these cases could be prevented by having working CO alarms.
• EMERGENCY KITS – If you have an emergency kit at home, now is the time to check for expired products or items that may have been borrowed for other purposed and need to be replaced. Pay particular attention to batteries, first aid supplies and food. Having a well-stocked kit is important in the event you lose power or are unable to leave home.

Daylight saving time ends Sunday, November 1 at 2 a.m.

For tips on emergency preparedness visits http://readywisconsin.wi.gov and https://www.ready.gov. You may also follow ReadyWisconsin on Facebook and Twitter.