As you set your clocks back this weekend, the American Red Cross is reminding homeowners to also test and, if necessary, replace your smoke alarms.

Experts say it's an important thing to do, as home fires take more lives every year than all other disasters combined, and working smoke alarms can cut that risk in half.

If you have a smoke alarm that is 10 years or older, it should be replaced because their components, such as the sensors, can become less sensitive over time.

"Home fires claim more lives every year than all natural disasters combined, but working smoke alarms can cut the risk of dying in a home fire in half," said Nick Bond, regional CEO, American Red Cross of Western New York. "The sooner an alarm alerts you to a fire, the sooner you can get out. When you turn your clocks back this weekend, test your smoke alarms too to help prevent a tragedy in your home."

Another piece of fire safety they stress is to have an escape plan in place and to practice it regularly with your family. 

If you need a new fire alarm, the Red Cross might be able to help as part of their Home Fire Safety campaign, which offers the installation of free smoke alarms by Red Cross volunteers and installation partners.

In the past year alone, they have installed more than 3,000 free smoke alarms in homes across Western New York.

To learn more, visit redcross.org/homefires.