My mom is in charge of Tuesday tips, but I’m taking this week on, as I am very passionate about the topic. I was hoping to ease back into my naturally frazzled state after two weeks of no work and no school, but that didn’t happen.

On Sunday night, when all was finally calm in the house, the smoke detector in our spare bedroom started making that ever pleasant piercing beep. I truly believe the manufacturers of smoke detectors are all involved in a conspiracy. Honestly, have your smoke detectors ever gone off during the daytime (and if you burnt the dinner that doesn’t count)? Mine never once have. I think there is some microchip hidden in every smoke detector that tells it to beep after all children are fast asleep in their beds. Around 10PM, I proceded in my jammies downstairs, searched for a 9 volt, and carried the ladder upstairs to change the battery. This is one of those times I wished my Prince Charming lived under my roof. Anyway, it now appears that the smoke detector was not crying for a new battery. It was crying because it is broken. (Help Dad!) 

Nonetheless, Tuesday’s tip is that each January 1st, set aside time to change all of the smoke alarm batteries, or better yet get your Prince Charming to do it for you. And twice a year on those daylight savings days, change all of the air filters in your house. These annual dates will help you remember to take care of these chores.