Local residents are reminded to set their clocks ahead one hour when Daylight Saving Time (DST) resumes at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 14.

Georgians are also urged by Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John W. Oxendine to change the batteries in their smoke detectors as well.

The commissioner’s plea is made in conjunction with the “Change Your Clock, Change Your Battery” fire safety program, sponsored by the International Association of Fire Chiefs and the American Burn Association.

The annual change from standard to Daylight Saving Time in the spring is a good time to make sure smoke detectors are functioning properly, according to the commissioner.

“Your smoke alarm can save your life but only if it’s in working order,” Oxendine said. “Every year, approximately one third of the fire fatalities in Georgia occur in homes that either do not have smoke alarms or where the alarms do not function.

“Changing the battery at least once every year and vacuuming the dust from the device are easy ways to ensure continued protection of your family and your property.

“And while you’re thinking about fire safety, plan and rehearse an escape route your family can use in the event of fire,” the commissioner continued. “A gathering place outside the home should be designated for family members prior to the drill.”

In conclusion, Commissioner Oxendine noted that having a working smoke detector doubles the chances of survival in a house fire.