NEW CITY, NY— Residents across Rockland County are being reminded to set their clocks ahead this weekend as Daylight Saving Time begins Sunday, March 8.
Officials with the Rockland County Department of Health said the time change is also a good opportunity for households to review important safety and preparedness measures while adjusting to the shift to longer daylight hours.
Clocks should be moved forward by one hour early Sunday morning, marking the start of Daylight Saving Time and providing extended daylight in the evening hours — a change that often encourages outdoor activities such as walking and bicycling.
Health officials recommend easing into the adjustment by gradually going to bed 10 to 15 minutes earlier in the days leading up to the time change. Sudden sleep disruptions, they said, can affect thinking, decision-making and productivity. Some research has also linked the transition to a temporary increase in risks for heart attacks, strokes, traffic accidents and mood disturbances.
The department also encourages residents to use the time change as a reminder to review emergency preparedness plans and restock household emergency supply kits. Officials advise storing several days’ worth of food and water, including at least one gallon of water per person per day. Emergency kits should also include supplies for pets, along with items such as a flashlight, batteries, a hand-operated can opener, a radio and copies of important documents.
Another key recommendation is to test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and replace batteries if needed.
Through the department’s Healthy Neighborhoods Program, eligible low- to moderate-income residents and seniors can receive assistance with battery changes and smoke or carbon monoxide alarm replacements at no cost while supplies last, officials said.
Residents seeking more information about emergency preparedness or the Healthy Neighborhoods Program can contact the Rockland County Department of Health for assistance.