How to Make Your Facility Safer During Fire Prevention Month

For Professionals - by Joe Weber - updated on 10/1/2025

October is Fire Prevention Month , the ideal time for businesses to evaluate their safety measures. From testing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to checking UPS systems, backup generators, and lighting, small updates now can make a big difference in keeping employees and customers safe.

Below, we'll walk you through our recommendations for facility safety for Fire Prevention Month that every facility should perform, as well as the batteries, lighting, and equipment that help keep your business prepared.

Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Testing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be your first step. Most run on 9V, AA, or AAA batteries. While alkaline batteries are common, lithium batteries provide a longer-lasting solution—the X2Power 9V lithium can last up to 10 years.

If detectors are outdated or malfunctioning, consider upgrading to a combination smoke/CO alarm for better protection. And don't forget to keep backup batteries on hand year-round.

For facilities with fire alarm systems, check the sealed lead acid (SLA) batteries in your control panels to ensure they're still reliable.

Check Other Important Equipment

Fire Prevention Month is a great time to inspect all of your other equipment in your building to ensure that their batteries are healthy and the equipment is functioning properly:

Backup Generators

Generators are critical for business continuity during outages. Their lead acid batteries typically last 24–36 months, but for peace of mind, replace them every 24 months.

If you're unsure about battery health, Batteries Plus can test your generator's batteries and recommend replacements. Don't have a generator? We also carry portable and inverter generators to fit your facility's needs.

UPS Systems

Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) systems protect sensitive electronics and prevent data loss during outages or surges. UPS systems rely on SLA batteries that degrade over time.

Even if your UPS alerts you when batteries need replacing, it's smart to test them proactively. We recommend Duracell Ultra SLA batteries, designed to meet or exceed OEM standards.

Touchless Devices & Thermometers

Touch-free technology is here to stay—think automatic sinks, toilets, paper towel dispensers, hand sanitizer stations, and digital thermometers. Touchless device batteries are AA, AAA, C, D, 9V, or coin cell.

Keep plenty of spares on hand, and consider upgrading from alkaline to lithium-ion batteries for longer runtime and fewer replacements.

Don't forget your cleaning equipment—floor scrubbers and sweepers run on deep-cycle batteries that should be tested and maintained regularly.

Interior & Exterior Lighting

With shorter daylight hours in fall and winter, proper lighting is essential. Replace burned-out bulbs, inspect fixtures and ballasts, and upgrade to LED lighting for better energy efficiency.

Batteries Plus offers lighting retrofit services, helping your business cut costs and qualify for energy rebates.

Don't neglect the outdoors—ensure parking lots, walkways, and common areas are well-lit to reduce accidents and improve employee security.

Maximize Safety and Savings with Batteries Plus

Fire Prevention Month is the perfect reminder to check your facility's batteries and lighting systems. At Batteries Plus, we offer:

• Battery testing and replacements for detectors, UPS systems, and generators
• Lighting retrofits and fixture upgrades for better efficiency
• Business accounts with volume discounts, local delivery, and dedicated advisors
• In-person or virtual site assessments to help lower power and lighting costs

Sign Up for a Batteries Plus Business Account

Keeping your facility safe is easier when you have the right partner. With a Batteries Plus Business Account, you'll get more than just products—you'll gain ongoing support designed to keep your workplace powered and protected.

Benefits include:

• Exclusive pricing and volume discounts on batteries, lighting, and safety essentials
• Fast, local delivery to save your team valuable time
• A dedicated advisor to help you choose the right products and streamline maintenance schedules
• Custom site assessments (in-person or virtual) to identify cost savings and safety upgrades
• Access to thousands of power, lighting, and facility solutions in one place, not available to retail customers

Signing up is quick, and it ensures your facility is prepared not only for Fire Prevention Month but for every season of the year.

Contact your local store today or Set Up Your Business Account

FAQ: Facility Safety During Fire Prevention Month

Q: How often should businesses replace smoke detector batteries?

A: Replace standard alkaline batteries once a year. For a longer lifespan, consider switching to lithium batteries, which can last up to 10 years.

Q: What's the difference between alkaline and lithium batteries in safety devices?

A: Lithium batteries last significantly longer and perform better in extreme temperatures, reducing maintenance time and costs.

Q: How do I know if my UPS battery needs replacement?

A: Many UPS systems issue an alert when batteries are weak, but it's smart to test them annually. If in doubt, Batteries Plus offers testing services.

Q: Do touchless devices need special batteries?

A: No—most run on common battery sizes like AA, AAA, C, D, 9V, or coin cell. However, lithium batteries are recommended for longer run times and fewer replacements.

Q: Can Batteries Plus help businesses lower energy costs?

A: Yes, through lighting retrofits, business accounts, and site assessments designed to save on power and maintenance.