While your phones and computers will automatically 'spring forward' one hour earlier this Sunday, April 7, Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) are encouraging people to check their smoke alarms when they change their clocks. 

Nyngan FRNSW Captain Rob Avard said smoke alarms were vital in protecting lives.

"It's important that when people change their clocks, they change their smoke alarm batteries also, because only working smoke alarms help save lives," he said.

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Extensive research over three years by FRNSW has revealed that the number, the location and interconnection of smoke alarms play a critical role in achieving positive fire safety outcomes.

More than 56 per cent of fatal house fires between 2000 and 2014 had no smoke alarms. Most of these deadly fires also occurred between midnight and 6am, when people were asleep.

"Smoke alarms save lives, it has been proven in the past, and it will be proven in the future," Captain Avard said. 

"A fire can take hold in just three minutes, filling your home with deadly smoke. A working smoke alarm gives you vital seconds to get out before you're overcome."

When changing smoke alarm batteries, Captain Avard is also encouraged people to check the age of their smoke alarms. 

"The smoke alarm age can be checked by looking on, or inside, the smoke alarm as the Australian Standard (AS3786) requires that there is a date stamp printed on them," he said. 

"If you discover that your smoke alarms are more than 10 years old, it's time to replace them, as they become less reliable with age."

Captain Avard said anyone who needed more information can contact him on 0427 865 477. 

"If anyone wants more information, whether it be how many is enough or where they should be located, we are willing to come around to give that advice," he said. 

"We will be happy to assist in any way possible."