Residents are being reminded to double-check the alarms in their homes as clocks spring forward by one hour at 2 a.m. on Sunday.
Sarnia Fire Public Education Officer Mike Otis said Daylight Saving Time acts as a good reminder to switch out the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms.
"You should change your batteries at least once a year, sooner if required," he said. "Also, check the dates on your smoke and CO alarms. All smoke and CO alarms expire, even hardwired smoke alarms."
Otis said it's a common misconception that hardwired alarms don't need to be replaced.
"The thing about hardwired alarms is, people will press the test button and it will beep... that just means it has power, it doesn't mean the sensor in there is very effective anymore," he said. "The older the alarm, the less sensitive it is to smoke, so it'll take a lot longer to respond in a fire situation."
Otis said the sensor is what will save someone's life, so it's important to replace smoke alarms every 10 years or sooner, depending on the manufacturer's instructions.
He said it's the law in Ontario to have working alarms on every storey of a home and outside of all sleeping areas.
Another important safety tool for families is to have a home escape plan.
"Making sure you account for everyone in the family, children and people who need assistance, have at least two ways out of each room, and have a safe meeting place outside," Otis said. "Call 911 once you're safely outside."