Daylight Saving Time Reminder: Change Your Smoke Detector Batteries + Review Your Insurance Coverage

Twice a year, when we change the clocks, it’s a good reminder to take care of a few simple things around your home or business that often get overlooked.

As Daylight Saving Time approaches, homeowners and business owners across Morris County and Morris Plains, NJ should take a few minutes to change the batteries in their smoke and carbon monoxide detectors — and it’s also a smart time to review your insurance coverage.

Why Changing Detector Batteries Matters

Working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are one of the simplest and most important ways to protect your home, family, employees, and property.

Many house fires and carbon monoxide incidents happen when alarms fail due to dead batteries or expired units. Taking a few minutes now can make a real difference in an emergency.

What to Do This Weekend

Use the time change as a checklist:

  • Replace batteries in all smoke detectors

  • Replace batteries in carbon monoxide detectors

  • Test each alarm

  • Check expiration dates (most units last 7–10 years)

For businesses, this is also a good time to confirm alarms are functioning properly throughout your building.

A Good Time to Review Your Insurance Coverage

Daylight Saving Time is also a natural checkpoint to review your coverage and make sure it still fits your needs. Over time, things change — renovations, purchases, vehicles, equipment, and business growth all affect your risk.

Homeowners in Morris County

Many homeowners don’t realize their coverage may need updating after:

  • Home renovations or additions

  • Finished basements

  • New valuables (jewelry, electronics, collectibles)

  • Changes in replacement cost values

A quick review can help avoid gaps before a claim ever happens.

Auto Insurance Check-In

It’s also worth reviewing your auto policy if:

  • You added or replaced a vehicle

  • Your driving habits changed

  • A driver was added to the household

  • It’s been a few years since your last review

Small adjustments can often make a meaningful difference.

Business Owners in Morris Plains & Morris County

For local business owners, coverage should be reviewed regularly — especially if:

  • You hired new employees

  • Purchased equipment

  • Changed locations

  • Expanded operations

Staying current helps prevent surprises later.

Local Support You Can Count On

At BIS Improved Insurance Agency, we work with homeowners, drivers, and businesses throughout Morris County and Morris Plains, NJ to review coverage and explain options clearly — without pressure.

If it’s been a while since your last review, Daylight Saving Time is a good reminder to check in.

📞 973-683-1000
📧
info@bisrm.com

FAQ:

How often should you change smoke detector batteries?

A good rule is twice a year — when the clocks change for Daylight Saving Time. Even if alarms seem fine, fresh batteries help ensure they work in an emergency.

How often should smoke and CO detectors be replaced?

Most smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be replaced every 7–10 years, depending on the manufacturer. Check the expiration date on the back of the unit.

Does homeowners insurance cover fire damage?

In most cases, standard homeowners insurance policies cover fire damage. However, coverage depends on the policy and limits, which is why regular reviews are important.

Does insurance cover carbon monoxide damage?

Homeowners insurance may cover resulting damage, but policies vary. Carbon monoxide detectors are essential to prevent serious injury and loss.

Why review insurance during Daylight Saving Time?

It’s an easy reminder to check coverage as your home, vehicles, and business needs change throughout the year.

To get your free insurance review or to answer your questions please contact us at (973)683-1000 or info@bisrm.com

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