The second weekend in March marks the start of Daylight Saving Time. It's also a good time to check the battery in your smoke detector and sign up for the life-saving Smart911 program.

The Sussex County Emergency Operations Center and Sussex County Emergency Medical Services remind homeowners and residents to regularly test the batteries in their smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. This simple step could save you and your loved ones' lives.

On Sunday, March 13, as the United States springs forward to Daylight Saving Time, use the time change as a reminder to check your batteries. 

If you need a smoke detector in your home, Delaware fire companies participate in the Wake Up, Delaware! campaign, which offers free smoke detectors and batteries to any family. For more information, contact your local fire company.

This weekend is also a good time to sign up for Smart911, to help first-responders quickly find you - and have critical information in hand - in an emergency. Go to Smart911.com to learn more and enroll.

A few minutes now could save your life, or someone you love, when seconds count.