Red Cross, firefighters remind to check batteries, smoke detectors

BATON ROUGE – As everyone will change their clocks this weekend the Louisiana Capital Area Chapter of the American Red Cross and Baton Rouge Fire Department reminds everyone to also check the batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.

“It’s important to test your smoke alarms at least once a month,” said Robert Combs of the Baton Rouge Fire Department. “Testing the alarm is easy. Simply push the test button until the alarm sounds. It’s a fact, smoke detectors save lives.”

“It’s important for everyone to understand that these simple devices can save lives when properly checked and maintained,” said Kendall Hebert, public relations director for the Red Cross. “American Red Cross staff and volunteers are one of the first on the scene in single-family home and apartment fires and work closely with area fire departments.”

The American Red Cross provides relief to victims of disasters at home and abroad, collects and distributes nearly half of the nation’s blood supply, teaches lifesaving skills, and supports military members and families.

The Louisiana Capital Area Chapter serves Ascension, East and West Baton Rouge, East and West Feliciana, Iberville, Livingston, Pointe Coupee, St. Helena and St. James parishes.