The clocks spring forward this weekend – and at the same time as you change timepieces, you should also check your smoke alarm.

The check is being urged by the Herts fire and rescue service which is supporting the national Fire Kills ‘Tick, Tock, Test’ campaign.

A working smoke alarm can buy you and your family the valuable time you need to get out, stay out and call 999. You’re four times more likely to survive a fire if you have a working smoke alarm.

Chief fire officer Roy Wilsher said: “Everyone soon notices when a clock stops ticking, but you might not realise if your smoke alarm isn’t in working order.

“Whether the battery is flat, has been used for something else or the connection is loose, please take the time to test before it’s too late.”

Councillor Richard Thake, County Hall’s cabinet member for community safety, added: “If you have an older relative who finds it hard to reach their smoke alarms, take the time to visit and test them. Smoke alarms save lives, but only if they work.”