As Daylight saving time ends on Nov. 5, the American Red Cross is encouraging people to test their smoke alarms and replace the batteries as needed.

Home fires account for most of the 60,000 disasters the Red Cross responds to annually across the country, according to Jorge Martinez, CEO of the American Red Cross of Greater Pennsylvania.

“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,” Martinez said. “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.”

Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of your home, including inside and outside bedrooms and sleeping areas, a news release from the Red Cross said.

The nonprofit also recommends replacing smoke alarms that are 10 years or older. Components such as sensors can become less sensitive over time.

If you cannot afford to purchase smoke alarms or are physically unable to install one, the Red Cross may be able to help.

Visit redcross.org/fire for more information, including an escape plan to create and practice with your family.