Spring Forward on March 9 + Smoke Alarm Reminder!

Published on March 06, 2025

Daylight Savings Time in Texas starts at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 9. Move your clocks forward one hour.

The Waco Fire Department also reminds residents this is a great time to change the smoke alarm batteries in your homes and to test them. About two-thirds of residential fire deaths occur in homes with no smoke alarms or non–working smoke alarms.

Through the Home Fire Campaign, Waco Fire, in partnership with the American Red Cross, offers free smoke alarm installation and fire safety education.

Request Service

Test Your Smoke Alarm

Remember, a silent smoke alarm can’t save you. Make it a habit to test your smoke alarms each month and replace batteries twice a year. A great time to change your batteries is when you adjust your clocks for daylight savings time.

It takes less than five minutes to change the battery. Most smoke alarms use 9-volt batteries. These are readily available at hardware stores, grocery stores, and pharmacies. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions or the back of the smoke alarm to make sure you’re using the correct battery type.

Don't Be Caught Off Guard

If your smoke alarm sounds, don’t panic! It’s doing its job. Here’s what to do:

1. Evacuate immediately. Get everyone out of the house.
2. Once outside, stay outside. Don’t re-enter the house until firefighters tell you it’s safe.
3. Call 911 from a safe distance.