We always change the batteries on our smoke detectors twice a year, when we change our clocks. I need to buy batteries for this weekend!
Mr. RR is fanatical about smoke detectors and CO2 detectors. We have them everywhere. A smoke detector not only needs new batteries twice a year, but the dectectors need to be replaced every eight to ten years. I'm so sorry for the loss to your whole family.
May I mention another sad cautionary tale. About six weeks ago, my three-year old grandnephew got into his grandmother's supply of Lomotil (anti-diarrheal prescription). They had a sweet flavored coating, and he swallowed a bunch of them. Sadly, he died of acute respiratory failure the next morning.
Please everyone, keep meds locked up and check those detectors. Lives, literally, depend on it.