5 reminders as we count down to the end of daylight savings time

It’s that time again. As the days get shorter, we are reminded that autumn is right around the corner. With daylight savings time ending on November 1, here are a few things to keep in mind as the sun goes down earlier each day. They’ll keep you safe and help you save energy and money!

1. Drive safely: It’s important to be aware of decreased visibility when it becomes dusk. Be on the look-out for children playing outside or riding their bikes. Reduce your speed in neighborhoods and be sure your lights are on. It’s also a good time to inspect your car to ensure your headlights are working and replace wiper blades if needed.
2. Exercise and play safely: Stay visible if you routinely walk or run in the evening. Adults and children should wear neon or light clothing, and reflective materials such as armbands and hats to help motorists see you. As for bike safety, be sure your bike is equipped with reflectors and/or flashing lights. It’s best to not allow young children to ride their bikes at dusk or dark. For more kids safety tips see Safe Kids Worldwide.
3. Inspect outdoor lighting: Fall is a great time to inspect your home’s outdoor lighting. If you haven’t already, consider replacing your regular bulbs with energy-efficient compact fluorescent bulbs or light-emitting diodes (LED). Since these bulbs last much longer than a regular incandescent bulb, you won’t have to change them as often when the weather is cold.
4. Change your light timers:Depending on the type of timer you have for your lights, you may need to reset them to turn on earlier. There are a variety of lighting controls available such as dimmers, timers, and motion/occupancy sensor controls to help you save energy and money. Learn more at Energy.gov.
5. Check fire safety equipment: Let the season change be a reminder to replace batteries in your home’s smoke alarm/carbon monoxide detectors. It’s important to inspect your fire extinguisher to ensure the can, hoses and nozzles aren’t damaged, dented or rusted. Check the pressure gauge to see if your extinguisher is at the recommended pressure level. Learn other tips from the U.S. Fire Administration.

 
Redwireus.com; National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, U.S. Fire Administration
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