REMEMBER the clocks go forward an hour overnight – so you get an hour less in bed!

Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue Service is asking people to welcome British Summer Time by Tick Tock Testing their smoke alarms when they change their clocks tonight.

For many people testing smoke alarms is often low on their list of priorities, so the Fire Kills campaign, in partnership with fire and rescue authorities, is asking people to make an online pledge to test their smoke alarms this clock change weekend.

Most people think that a fire will never break out in their homes but you’re at least four times more likely to die in a fire in your home if you do not have a working smoke alarm.

A simple push of the ‘test’ button only takes seconds, so make sure it’s added to your spring to-do list as it could save your life and the lives of family, friends and neighbours – especially older people who need help testing.

Many householders don’t realise that the smoke from a fire in the home is so dangerous that it can leave them for dead. Smoke will not wake you up if there is a fire in your home – it will kill you.

Smoke is responsible for over half of all deaths in accidental fires in homes.

A working smoke alarm is the best way to make sure you have enough time to get out, stay out and dial 999.

The service’s community safety prevention manager Marc House said: “Smoke alarms are a well-proven lifesaving tool, but they are no use if they are not working.

“You are at least four times more likely to die in a fire if you don’t have a working smoke alarm, so taking the time to test the smoke alarms in your home could be a truly lifesaving decision.

“This clock change weekend can act as a great reminder to test your smoke alarms – so why not test yours when you change the clocks or are catching up on those DIY jobs around your home?”