While people are going to reach out to the back of their clocks to switch to daylight savings time this Sunday on March 14, California Fire and the Office of the State Fire Marshal are asking all California residents to change their smoke alarm batteries while they're at it.

According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology, Daylight Saving Time this year begins on March 14 and ends on November 7. Fire officials believe that it's a not a bad time to spread awareness among people about fire prevention, along with the importance of keeping their smoke alarms in a good working condition.

National Fire Protection Association says that more than 66 percent of home fire deaths that occurred between 2003-2006 were in houses that did not have a proper, functioning smoke alarm.

According to Fire Officials, "The changing of the clock timings is an ideal reminder to change your smoke alarm batteries at least twice a year".

Chief Tonya Hoover, Acting State Fire Marshal, says, "With proper maintenance and regular testing, smoke alarms play a pivotal role in the early notification of a fire emergency".

"By taking just a few seconds each year to replace the battery, you can truly make a difference in protecting your family and your home", he concludes.