So says the Santa Clara County Fire Chief's Association, which has launched its "Change Your Clocks, Change Your Batteries" campaign. Residents are urged to change the batteries in their detectors when they change their clocks Oct. 26. They should also be sure detectors are located on each building level and inside and outside each sleeping area.

Ceiling-mounted detectors should be at least six inches from any wall, and wall-mounted units should be at least four inches from the ceiling.

For more safety information visit the nearest fire station.


Positions available on commissions

TThe city is looking for individuals interested in filling two vacancies on city commissions.

One vacancy is on the finance commission, which reviews the city's annual audits and budgets and performs other activities at the request of the council. It meets on the second Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at the civic center.

One vacancy is on the library commission, which provides recommendations to the council and city and library staff regarding the library's policies, procedures, plans and budgets. It meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 7:30 p.m.

Saratoga residents are welcome to apply and must attend a commission meeting prior to participating in the interview process, which will be help prior to the Nov. 6 council meeting. Applications are due Oct. 31 by 5 p.m. and are available in the civic center's Office of the City Clerk, 13777 Fruitvale Ave., 408.868.1269.