As the weather warms up, many of us start opening windows, spending more time outside, grilling, tackling spring projects, and getting our homes ready for the months ahead.

It is also a good time to revisit one of the simplest and most important home safety items: smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.

I always tell clients that good homeownership is about staying ahead of the small things. Testing your alarms only takes a few minutes, but it can make a meaningful difference.

Start by checking every smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector in the home. Replace batteries as needed and make sure each unit is still within its recommended lifespan. Many alarms have expiration dates, and older units may need to be replaced even if they still appear to work.

As temperatures rise, it is also worth being mindful of seasonal fire risks. Grills come back out, outdoor electrical equipment gets used more often, dryer vents may be overdue for cleaning, and warm weather projects can add new activity around the home. A quick safety check now helps make sure your home is ready.

Placement matters too. Make sure alarms are installed on each level of the home, near bedrooms, and in the right areas based on the layout and systems of the property. This is especially important in homes with fireplaces, gas appliances, attached garages, or older mechanical systems.

From a real estate standpoint, safety and maintenance go hand in hand. Buyers want to feel confident that a home has been cared for properly. Sellers who take care of basic safety items before listing help the home feel prepared, well maintained, and ready for its next owner.

A beautiful home should also be a safe home. This is a simple seasonal habit, and one I would recommend to every homeowner.