The first Sunday in November marks the end of Daylight Saving Time. It's also the time to change the batteries in smoke detectors, or replace devices that are more than 10 years old.

The Sussex County Emergency Operations Center and Sussex County Emergency Medical Services join the Delaware Volunteer Firefighters Association in reminding the public to check and change the batteries in their home smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. This simple step could save you and your loved ones' lives.

On Sunday, Nov. 1, remember to test and change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors when the United States falls back from Daylight Saving Time. If your smoke/carbon monoxide alarms are more than 10 years old, replace each unit with a new 10-year sealed-battery detector, available at national and local retailers and hardware stores. Families also are encouraged to use the extra hour “gained” from the end of Daylight Saving Time to review their home fire safety plans and remind their friends, family and neighbors of the life-saving habit of changing and testing smoke alarms.

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