Miami, Fla., [March 8, 2024] — As people turn their clocks forward this weekend for the start of daylight saving time, the American Red Cross asks everyone to also test their smoke alarms. 

Home fires are the nation’s most frequent disaster and tragically take seven lives every day in this country.  

“It’s critical to take action now to be as safe as possible to avoid a fire in your home,” said Monica Rusconi, Regional Disaster Officer, American Red Cross South Florida Region. “Red Cross volunteers in this area have responded to over 60 home fires just in the first month of this year. The good news is that you can take a few simple steps this weekend to help protect your loved ones.”  

During a fire, early warning from a working smoke alarm plus a fire escape plan that has been practiced regularly can save lives. As the clocks “move forward” when daylight saving time begins on Sunday, March 10, it’s also the perfect time to test your smoke alarms and replace the batteries if needed. 

In addition to testing your smoke alarms this weekend, follow these three steps get your home ready: 

1. Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including inside and outside bedrooms and sleeping areas. 
2. Replace smoke alarms that are 10 years or older. Components such as sensors can become less sensitive over time. Follow your alarm’s manufacturer instructions.  
3. Practice your two-minute home fire escape plan. Make sure everyone in your household can get out in less than two minutes — that’s the amount of time you may have to escape a burning home before it’s too late. Include at least two ways to get out of every room and select a meeting spot at a safe distance away from your home, such as your neighbor’s home or landmark like a specific tree in your front yard, where everyone can meet.  

HOME FIRE CAMPAIGN SAVES 2,000+ LIVES Since October 2014, the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign with community partners has saved at least 2,030 lives by educating families about fire safety, helping them create escape plans and installing more than 2.2 million free smoke alarms in high-risk homes across the country. 

For more information, including safety tips and free resources, visit redcross.org/homefires or download the free Red Cross Emergency app by searching for ‘American Red Cross’ in app stores.  

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on X at @RedCross.