SALT LAKE CITY — As daylight saving time begins Sunday, March 8, the American Red Cross of Utah is encouraging residents across the state to take a simple step that could save lives: test their smoke alarms.
The reminder comes as part of the fourth annual Utah Turn & Test Smoke Alarm Challenge, which urges Utahns to check their smoke alarms when they set their clocks forward for daylight saving time.
Working smoke alarms provide an early warning during a home fire, giving families valuable time to escape. According to the Red Cross, home fires nationwide claimed more than 2,600 lives last year.
The American Red Cross of Utah works with local fire departments and community partners to help reduce that risk by installing free smoke alarms, sharing fire safety information and helping families develop home fire escape plans.
Utah residents who need assistance can schedule a free appointment for smoke alarm installation through the Red Cross Sound the Alarm program.
Appointments can be scheduled online at SoundTheAlarm.org/Utah.