Another Hour of Sleep

Set your clocks back 1 hour tonight at 2 AM!

Daylight Saving Time is coming to an end. This means most Americans will be setting their clocks back one hour and returning to Standard Time on Sunday, November 2nd at 2 a.m.

If it seems like we’re a little later than usual in setting back the clocks, you’re right. Daylight Saving Time (DST) was actually extended by an entire month this year as a result of the Energy Policy Act, enacted in 2005.

But, even if you’re in the parts of the country that don’t turn back the clock, this is also a great time to perform important tasks around the house, including:

• Resetting automatic lights and sprinklers to standard time operation.
• Checking fire extinguishers and testing smoke detectors.
• Restocking first-aid kits and emergency supplies.
• Changing important passwords and personal identification numbers (PINs).
• Rotating tires and inspecting the spare.

I often wondered why we actually have Daylight saving time. I was told stories about it butI never really knew. Click here for some excellent history and information on Daylight Saving Time

Fire Safety

As busy as our daily routines and lives are, it’s sometimes easy to overlook fire safety and other home maintenance.

Remember to replace the old batteries in your home’s smoke alarms regularly.  A good rule of thumb is every six months when you change the clocks for Daylight Savings.  This year it ends on November 2nd.

While you’re at it, dust each alarm and test it to make sure it is properly functioning. Make sure you have installed enough smoke alarms for the size of your home–at least one per floor, especially near bedrooms.

It’s also a good idea to periodically check your fire extinguishers. Many models are useful only for a certain number of years before they must be serviced or replaced. Check your model to determine the time period. Each home should have at least one extinguisher in the kitchen and the garage.

Finally, because overloaded circuits are the cause of many home fires, you should take a few minutes to scan your home’s power outlets and replace any cords or plugs that have cracks or other visible damage.

These simple tasks will make your home a safer place for everyone.