The Shapiro administration is reminding Pennsylvanians to change the batteries in their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms while changing their clocks for last weekend’s “spring forward” time change.

When functioning, smoke alarms can decrease the risk of dying in a home fire by as much as half. Dead or missing batteries are the most common cause of a smoke or carbon monoxide alarm malfunction.

“Working smoke alarms are absolutely critical for your family to receive early notification during a fire emergency in your home,” said State Fire Commissioner Thomas Cook. “When seconds count, the early warning provided by a smoke alarm can be the difference between safely exiting your home, and not making it out. I can’t emphasize enough the importance of working smoke detectors, especially for anyone in your home who may need extra time to get outside to safety.”

If you need a smoke alarm, visit the ReadyPA website to request a free smoke alarm from the American Red Cross.

Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms have a life span, and the entire unit should be replaced every 10 years with a new one.