[Red Oak, IA] – As Daylight Saving Time comes to an end this Sunday, November 2, 2025, the Red Oak Fire Department is reminding everyone to “Change Your Clocks, Change Your Batteries.” When you set your clocks back one hour, take a moment to also replace the batteries in all smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in your home. This simple step could save your life. Red Oak Fire Chief John Bruce says “Working smoke alarms are one of the most important and cost-effective ways to protect your family from fire. Changing the batteries twice a year ensures they’re always ready to alert you in an emergency.”

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that three out of five home fire deaths occur in homes without working smoke alarms. Many of these failures are due to missing or dead batteries.
In addition to changing batteries, residents are encouraged to:

• Test smoke and CO alarms monthly.
• Replace smoke alarms every 10 years and CO alarms every 5–7 years, depending on manufacturer recommendations.
• Install alarms on every level of the home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas.
• Develop and practice a home escape plan with your family.

Chief Bruce said “The Red Oak Fire Department remains committed to promoting fire safety and prevention throughout our community. Remember — “Change Your Clocks, Change Your Batteries” — a few minutes today can make all the difference tomorrow.”

For more information about fire safety, contact the Red Oak Fire Department at 712-623-6504 or emailing fireprevention@redoakia.city