LOS ANGELES (CNS) - The weekend is going to be one hour shorter than usual, thanks to the beginning of daylight saving time at 2 a.m. Sunday.

Before going to bed tonight, remember to turn your clocks ahead by one hour.

As usual, firefighters urged people to use the time change as a reminder to check smoke alarms and replace the batteries if necessary. It is also a good time to reset timers on outdoor lights and lawn sprinkler systems.

Firefighters offered the following tips on handling and maintaining smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors:
— Install smoke detectors on all floors of your home or apartment.
— If the devices are hardwired into your electrical system, be sure to have a backup battery-operated smoke detector in case of a power outage.
— Mount alarms high on walls, at least four to 12 inches from the ceiling.
— Never paint over a smoke detector.
— Use a vacuum cleaner to remove lint or dust.
— Test the smoke detectors regularly. If the smoke detector “chirps” it is an indication of a low battery, which should be changed.

The Automobile Club of Southern California also warned drivers to be on the lookout for school children and other pedestrians, since it will be dark for an hour longer in the mornings.