While maintaining their clocks for daylight savings time, Sequim residents also should remember to check their smoke alarms. Smoke alarms are the best defense for surviving a house fire, according to a press release from Clallam Fire District 3.

House fires can grow three times every minute and temperatures at chest height can run up to 600 degrees. Early warning for house fires through smoke alarms can be lifesaving, so the fire district encourages the following smoke alarm checks and maintenance.

First, residents should replace any smoke alarm more than 10 years old and make sure that wired alarms have a battery backup. Make sure alarms are installed on each floor, in hallways and in sleeping areas.

Use the test button on your alarm to check it at least once a month and change the batteries regularly.