<p></p> <img src=https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/dcr-apis/wp_contents/uploads/DCR-ADMIN/smoke%20detector.jpeg alt=undefined style=height: auto;width: auto/> <p></p> <p>I usually remember to check the batteries for my smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors this time of year when the clocks change, but I forgot to in March because I was out of town. Some people fall into the habit of doing this in autumn when clocks “fall” back. Whatever you do, it’s smart to have a schedule for this kind of maintenance so you won’t forget like I did. <br><br>According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were roughly 360,000 residential fires in 2025 that caused more than $7 billion in property damage. Most fires are caused by cooking (50% start in kitchens) and heating equipment. The good news is that residential fires and related deaths/injuries have declined over the past 50 years due to public awareness and safety measures.<br><br>Protect your family by testing your detectors once a year. Install a smoke alarm in every bedroom and a CO alarm on every level of your home. Some smoke alarms have 10-year batteries, but others have to be replaced every year. While you’re doing your safety inspection, it’s also a good idea to check the expiration dates on your fire extinguishers. It’s easy to forget about them and if they’re too old, they won’t work when you need them.<br><br><a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/ target=_self>Use Diamond Certified Resource to find top rated companies.</a><br><br><strong>Local, Top Rated Diamond Certified Companies Related to Your Topic</strong><br><a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/santa-clara-county-water-fire-damage-restoration/ target=_self>Santa Clara County Fire &amp; Water Damage Contractors</a><br><a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/contra-costa-water-fire-damage-restoration/ target=_self>Contra Costa County Fire &amp; Water Damage Contractors</a><br><a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/alameda-county-water-fire-damage-restoration/ target=_self>Alameda County Fire &amp; Water Damage Contractors</a><br><a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/san-mateo-county-water-fire-damage-restoration/ target=_self>San Mateo County Fire &amp; Water Damage Contractors</a><br><a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/water-fire-damage-restoration/ca/sonoma-county/ target=_self>Sonoma County Fire &amp; Water Damage Contractors</a> <br><br><strong>Related Articles</strong><br><a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/Guide/Water-Fire-Damage-Restorations/ target=_self>The Homeowner's Guide to Water &amp; Fire Damage</a> <br><a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/ target=_self>Get Expert Advice From Owners of Top Rated Local Companies</a><br><a href=https://www.diamondcertified.org/membership/ target=_self>Become a Diamond Certified Preferred Member (Always Free)</a>&nbsp;</p>