Spring Forward in San Gorgonio Pass: 'Change Clocks, Change Batteries'

When residents of Cabazon, Banning and Beaumont set their clocks forward one hour late Saturday or early Sunday, Cal Fire officials hope they will also check smoke and carbon monoxide alarm batteries in their homes.

"CAL FIRE has long advocated the 'Change Your Clock, Change Your Battery' campaign," Cal Fire Director Ken Pimlott said in a statement this week. "A smoke alarm is one of the cheapest and most effective ways homeowners can provide year round fire protection for themselves and their families."

According to the National Fire Protection Association, smoke alarms cut the risk of fatality in a home fire by one-half. Overall, three-quarters of all U.S. homes have at least one working smoke alarm.

"Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms unquestionably help save lives, but they are nothing without working batteries inside of them,"California State Fire Marshal Tonya Hoover said. "Just a few minutes twice a year to change that battery can truly mean the difference between life and death."

Editor's Note: Spring forward + ADD one hour late Saturday or early Sunday.