Fall Has Arrived in Central New York: Cooler Temperatures, Colorful Leaves and an Important Safety Reminder

CENTRAL NEW YORK — Fall has officially arrived across Central New York, bringing cooler temperatures, shorter days and the brilliant reds, oranges and yellows that make autumn one of the most beautiful times of year in Upstate New York.

As leaves begin changing across Oneida, Madison and surrounding counties, residents are preparing for everything that comes with the season — crisp mornings, earlier sunsets, fall festivals, changing foliage and eventually the return of colder weather.

But fall is also a good time to take care of a few important safety items around the home.

Daylight Saving Time Ends November 1

This year, Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday, November 1, 2026. At 2:00 a.m., clocks will be turned back one hour to 1:00 a.m., giving most residents an extra hour of sleep but also bringing sunset noticeably earlier in the evening.

The twice-a-year clock change has traditionally served as a useful reminder for families to check safety equipment throughout their homes.

Check Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

As temperatures fall and furnaces, fireplaces and other heating equipment begin seeing more use, residents should make sure their smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends testing smoke alarms at least once a month by pressing the test button. Smoke alarms should generally be replaced when they reach about 10 years old, while batteries in alarms that use replaceable batteries should be changed according to the manufacturer's instructions and whenever a low-battery warning sounds.

Carbon monoxide alarms should also be tested monthly. Because CO detectors have a limited service life, homeowners should check the manufacturer's replacement date or replace the unit when its end-of-life warning activates.

Carbon monoxide is especially important to think about as heating season begins because homes using fuel-burning furnaces, fireplaces, boilers and other equipment can have potential sources of carbon monoxide. NFPA also recommends having fuel-burning heating equipment and chimneys inspected according to manufacturer instructions.

Enjoy the Colors — But Prepare for What Comes Next

For now, Central New Yorkers can enjoy one of the most scenic stretches of the year. The changing leaves, cool evenings and fall landscapes are a reminder of why autumn in Upstate New York is so special.

But those beautiful fall colors also signal that winter isn't far behind.

Before the truly cold weather arrives, take a few minutes to walk through your home, press the test buttons on your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, check their age and batteries, and make sure your family knows what to do if an alarm sounds.