Eighty-three percent of all civilian fire-related deaths are a result of home fires. By providing an early warning and critical extra seconds to escape, smoke alarms increase your family’s chance of getting out of a home fire alive – but only if they work!

Therefore, the Westbrook Fire Rescue Department encourages that when you turn your clocks ahead on March 11 for Daylight Savings Time – which formerly began the first Sunday in April – make a lifesaving change in your household. Change the batteries in your smoke alarms.

This simple habit takes just a moment, but it is the best defense your family has against the devastating effects of a home fire.