It is almost time to spring forward for Daylight Saving Time.

When setting your clock ahead one hour on Sunday, March 12, make sure your smoke alarms are working, and check that the batteries have plenty of charge. It is also a great time to check the expiration dates of your emergency supplies.

A smoke alarm with a dead or missing battery is the same as having no smoke alarm at all. Take care of your smoke alarms according to the manufacturer instructions, and follow these tips from the U.S. Fire Administration:

• Smoke alarm powered by a nine-volt battery - Test the alarm monthly. Replace the batteries at least once every year. Replace the entire smoke alarm every 10 years.
• Smoke alarm powered by a 10-year lithium (or “long-life”) battery - Test the alarm monthly. Since you cannot (and should not) replace the lithium battery, replace the entire smoke alarm according to the manufacturer's instructions and dispose of it properly at a household hazardous waste site or by sending it back to the manufacturer.
• Smoke alarm that is hardwired into your home's electrical system - Test the alarm monthly. Replace the backup battery at least once every year. Replace the entire smoke alarm every 10 years.

Replace any of your emergency supplies that will expire within the next six months and use the old supplies before they expire. Some examples of items that can expire are:

• Water
• Food
• Prescription medications
• First-aid supplies
• Batteries

For more information on emergency supplies, visit Ready.gov.