As daylight saving time begins on Sunday, March 9, the American Red Cross urges everyone to test their smoke alarms while setting their clocks forward. Ensuring alarms are working can help save lives in the event of a home fire.

In the past three months, Red Cross volunteers in the Greater Kansas Chapter have assisted 171 people affected by 49 home fires. Home fires remain the most common disaster, with the Red Cross responding to about 65,000 annually across the country.

When adjusting your clocks, check your smoke alarms and replace batteries if needed. Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of your home, inside and outside bedrooms and sleeping areas. If an alarm is 10 years or older, it should be replaced, as its sensors can lose sensitivity over time.

Practicing a two-minute fire escape plan is also crucial. Everyone in your household should know two ways to exit each room and have a designated meeting spot at a safe distance outside, such as a neighbor’s home or a specific tree.

For those unable to afford or install smoke alarms, the Red Cross may provide assistance. Contact your local Red Cross or visit redcross.org/fire for more information.