It may not be warm outside yet and we’ll be losing an hour of sleep but it will be lighter out, later since it’s time to spring forward this weekend.

Daylight Saving Time begins this Sunday, with area residents being reminded to set their clocks ahead by one hour at 2am. Many electronic devices such as cell phones and computers update and sync automatically with the spring time change but it also marks an easy way to remember to replace or at least check the batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Local fire officials remind that smoke alarms slowly start to wear out like everything else and should be replaced every ten years to make sure they respond properly, and in a timely manner. Carbon monoxide detectors should also be replaced every seven years but both alarms should always be located near sleeping areas.

The weekend is also said to be a good time to not only actually test smoke alarms but make sure you have an escape plan in case of a fire and practice it. A number of local fire departments also have programs in which firefighters will come out and check smoke alarms to make sure they’re in proper working order and help replace them or install new batteries. (JM)