ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) – With daylight saving time 2024 coming to an end, firefighters with the Brighton Fire Department said it's the perfect time of year to double check the functionality of smoke detectors in your home. The end of daylight saving often marks the beginning of colder weather, which is when folks around Rochester light their gas fireplaces and turn on the heat. With this comes the risk for fires and carbon monoxide-related emergencies. Brighton Fire Chief Stephen MacAdam said that double checking the batteries and lifespan of smoke detectors can potentially protect your family, and home, from disaster. Rochester family displaced after electrical fire in home “Besides, when we change our clock, we want people to test their smoke detector every month," Chief MacAdam said. "But this time of year serves as a good reminder too, especially if you haven't checked in a while. Make sure you change your clock and change your batteries." Chief MacAdam added that hard-wired smoke detectors, which are connected directly to the home, still have back-up batteries that require changing regularly. On average, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have a 10-year lifespan. Once 10 years have passed, it's encouraged to purchase a new one to replace it. Most hardware stores and online shopping websites sell these detectors. If there's not multiple smoke and carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home, Chief MacAdams said there should be. At a minimum, every level of your home should have these alarms including your basement," Chief MacAdams said. "Ideally one in every room, but at least one on every floor." Families living in Rochester can call 311 and have a smoke or carbon monoxide alarm installed for them free of charge. Brighton Fire Department and many other local fire agencies also offer free smoke detectors and in-home installation services.