It is understood that although the software update techniques are described herein with respect to a hazard detection system, these techniques may also be used in any system or device where it is desired to maintain sensing and monitoring of other events while updating the operational capabilities of one of more components of that system or device. For example, the other events can include events that are not necessarily tied to hazards such as smoke, CO, and heat, but can include motion detection, sound detection, and the like. Events reported by remote devices may also be taken into account. For example, security device such as window and door sensor, and motion detection sensors that provide feedback to a system may quality as other events.