Hall County Fire Marshal Scott Cagle reminds residents that the change to daylight saving time tonight is also the ideal time to replace batteries in your smoke alarms.

Working smoke alarms cut your risk of dying in a fire in half, Cagle says, though about one-quarter of all smoke alarms are not working due to a dead or missing battery.

Some recent fires in Hall County included smoke alarms that did not function, he said.

Cagle also urges residents to make sure their smoke alarms are free of dust, and to replace any older than 10 years old.

For alarms with long-lasting lithium batteries, Cagle recommends testing the alarm to see that it works properly.

Families also need an agreed-upon escape plan in case of a fire.

For questions concerning fire safety, contact the Hall County Fire Marshal’s Office at 770-531-6838 or scagle@hallcounty.org.