Circleville –
As winter fades and warmer weather approaches, many Americans are preparing to “spring forward” next weekend as Daylight Saving Time (DST) officially begins on Sunday, March 10, 2024, at 2:00 am local time.
What to Expect:
- Clocks will be set forward one hour at 2:00 am local time on Sunday, March 10th. This means you will lose an hour of sleep that night.
- Sunrise and sunset will occur one hour later compared to standard time. This provides an extra hour of daylight in the evening, allowing people to enjoy more outdoor activities after work or school.
Some Tips:
- Adjust your sleep schedule gradually in the days leading up to Daylight Saving Time. Go to bed and wake up 15-30 minutes earlier each day to help your body adjust to the time change.
- Expose yourself to sunlight in the morning after waking up. This can help regulate your circadian rhythm and make it easier to adjust to the time change.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol in the evening as they can disrupt your sleep.
- Be mindful of drowsy driving as the time change can affect your alertness, especially in the days following the switch.
- Double-check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they are working properly as you may be changing their batteries as part of the time change routine.
The Debate Over DST:
While some people enjoy the extra hour of daylight in the evening, others criticize Daylight Saving Time for its potential negative impacts on sleep, health, and economic productivity. The debate over DST continues, with some states even considering proposals to make Daylight Saving Time permanent.
Regardless of your stance on DST, it’s important to be prepared for the upcoming time change next weekend. By taking steps to adjust your sleep schedule and stay safe, you can minimize any disruptions and make the most of the extra hour of daylight.
