SANDPOINT — According to the National Fire Protection Agency, two-thirds of home fire deaths result from fires in homes without a working smoke alarm.

Selkirk Fire Rescue and EMS firefighters would like to remind everyone to not only set clocks ahead for daylight saving time, but to change batteries in all smoke alarms as well.

“Saving your life can be as simple as changing your smoke alarm batteries once a year and replacing smoke alarms every seven to 10 years,” said Selkirk firefighter Kevin Amorebieta.

Special smoke alarms are available for those who are deaf or hearing-impaired as well.

The NFPA reports that working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in a home fire in half. Research has also demonstrated that photoelectric smoke alarms are more effective at warning people of smoke from smoldering fires than ionization smoke alarms. With earlier warning, people have more time to escape a burning structure and call to 911.

Local firefighters recommend installing a dual purpose smoke alarm in every bedroom, outside of every bedroom and on each floor of your home.

“You should also install carbon monoxide alarms in your home and check them once a month,” Amorebieta said.

Carbon monoxide fumes are poisonous and will increase the intensity of a fire if ignited. More than 2,300 people die each year in home fires. Having a smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarm that works 24 hours a day greatly increases your chance of survival if your home catches on fire.

In the case of an emergency, please call 911.